WE Indians celebrate Independence Day on August 15, and it’s just a celebration for most of us. Many people celebrate Independence Day by singing and uploading patriotic songs and quotations on social media. Even in schools and colleges, we do the same. We teach our children to sing patriotic songs and stage an emotional play that shows patriotism. Of course, it enhances patriotism in young minds, but what about the next day? We see the flags trampled upon on roads and thrown into dustbins.
Our National flag is a symbol of the nation’s pride and respect. There is liberal use of the flag on Independence Day and Republic Day. There is a new trend of selling flags made of paper and plastic, which is incorrect. With a sense of national pride, people enthusiastically buy such flags but the very next day, we find them being trampled upon on roads and thrown into dustbins. By allowing this to happen, people forget that they are insulting the national flag. Often, these flags are burnt along with the garbage. It is the duty of every individual to maintain proper respect towards their National flag. We also commonly see people waving the National flag proudly during national, cultural and sporting events. However, once the programme or the event gets over, we see the flags strewn all over the place. This disrespect towards our flag must be stopped. Even when the national anthem is played on radio or on television, people don’t stand still and sing along. They are busy cooking in the kitchen or are busy talking on their mobile phones. As Indians, we should respect our country’s national flag, national anthem and national song. We must focus on our country’s needs. It does not need patriotic songs or only one-day celebrations. Be sincere and honest with your work. A common man cannot change the whole system but many common people together can do this. It is the best way to make a difference.
Seventy-six years ago, our great leaders struggled hard to bless us with a nation where we can practice our religion without fear of recrimination. Despite all the sacrifices and hardships we have endured, are we really an independent nation or one in name only? Seventy-six years on and we still struggle to hold free and fair elections, elect competent and honest leaders, provide justice and quality education to all, keep the press free and attain gender parity.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in India
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