Looking Ahead After 75 Years

 

By APURVA RAI

WHAT a glorious moment for a country that struggled hard for almost two centuries to gain its Independence from British colonial rule. August 15, 1947, was the most magical moment of Indian history and will always hold the highest place of pride in the heart of every Indian. The independence didn’t come easy; almost every Indian made his or her contribution, several of them making supreme sacrifices, to see the dawn of a new era. India’s first Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru summed it up aptly: "At the stroke of the midnight when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” 

Like the story of the Indian freedom struggle, the story of India’s development and rise to its universal presence in the world today is no less significant. During these 75 years of its independence, India has made development leaps and bounds enabling it to stand tall, strong, rich, and resourceful. Today nobody can dare to even look at its borders, today India has a voice of its own, today India has its own identity, today Indian products are exported to almost every country in the world, today Indian people are respected everywhere for their knowledge and skills. No doubt, India has achieved so much and so fast in the last 75 years that today it can compete with the best.

The Indian government is celebrating 75 years of Independence as ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ which is described as the elixir of energy of independence. It means elixir of inspiration of the warriors of the freedom struggle; elixir of new ideas and pledges and nectar of Aatmnirbharta (self-dependence).  The Mahotsav (celebration) commemorates 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its people, culture, and achievement. The official journey of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ commenced on 12^th March 2021 which started a 75-week countdown to our 75^th anniversary of independence and ends on 15^th August 2023.

‘HAR GHAR TIRANGA’ and MY PATRIOTISM

The government has appealed to the people of India to hoist the tricolour in their homes to show their feeling of patriotism. The campaign comes as part of the ‘Amrit Mahotsav’.

It is fine to ask people to display Indian tricolour in their homes. To what extent does it prove my feelings for my motherland? Some people have objections as to why there should be a public display of their loyalties.

For decades I am in the habit of hoisting the tricolour in my home; sometimes on the railing of my roof or sometimes on the boundary wall. Believe me, I have never spoken a word about it to anyone so far; nor have I ever posted a picture of it on social media. It’s a practice that I love from my heart. Every year I purchase the flag from a small child selling them at road crossings. These little children, holding a bunch of tiny paper flags will come running and plead to buy one, at least. I have seen people misbehaving with them, yelling and mistreating, or bargaining hard. This hurts me. I have never bargained and will never do so. These are the street urchins who help their parents at that age when other children are enjoying a burger at McDonald's. Today when elders complain about their children not supporting them these little poor children teach us a great lesson in life— they have stood by their parents who are feeble and not able to meet family needs independently. 

My act is a reflection of my sentiments which are the result of my inner voice. I never waited for an appeal from somebody. There is so much of excitement, so much of happiness and what a joy of buying that tiny flag, bringing it home, tying it to the railing, making sure it doesn't fall and making sure the knot remains tight. Your emotions, the feeling of pride for your motherland cannot be described when you see the tiny tricolour flying in your home. 

All my family members will walk the whole day to the verandah, keeping an eye on the tiny flag. What a feeling watching Tiranga flying hundreds of times in a day! Every time we see we will talk about the freedom struggle, the current socio-political situation, the prime minister’s speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, and so on. One can’t think of anything but the nation, at least on this day. Isn’t it enough proof of my or my family’s patriotism?

It gives me goosebumps when I see the tricolour being unfurled followed by the national anthem on TV. We will stand in respect of the national anthem without fail. Moreover, we will not talk about it to anyone outside. And this does not happen with me only; it’s the story of millions of Indians hoisting a small Tiranga in their homes and standing to the tune of Jana Gana Mana. Millions of Indians, like me, do not discuss patriotism in society. They prove it to themselves not once or twice but thousands of times, year after year. The ‘silent’ feeling of patriotism is neither for public display nor needs any certification. ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ certainly infuses a feeling of pride; it cannot be a compulsory statement of patriotism. And that’s the second opinion! 

PAST Vs PRESENT

What kind of society prevailed when India attained independence? And, what kind of society prevails today when India is independent for 75 years?

Today’s India is a well-developed India, today’s society is a progressive society, people are better educated, more professional, more efficient, and modern in their outlook. There are big industries, improved agriculture, technology, sophisticated laboratories, long highways and much more. True. This means today’s society should be a close-knit society! People should have stronger bonding, they should be closer to each other and more helpful! False.

Modernization, westernization, and urbanization have impacted our lives beyond imagination. Ethics, moral values, mutual respect, tolerance, contentment, and happiness seem to have lost ground and today almost every one of us is living in a world of rivalry, jealousy, distancing, ego and selfishness.

Our forefathers didn’t have too many clothes, didn’t have a car, didn’t take the family to the cinema, didn’t have a plush drawing room, didn’t sleep on a mattress, didn’t have enough to give as pocket money, didn’t have enough to go for a family outing, didn’t eat fancy food and what not. Contrary to this, what they certainly did have was the happiness of the family which made them happier, the joy of sharing and caring even if it meant making personal sacrifices, a simple dal-chawal would suffice, and new clothes for the family, preferably the younger ones, once or twice in a year wouldn’t come without much of planning and some sacrifice, they will have enough time in the evening to sit with compatriots, gossip and the veranda which will be filled with bouts of laughter, they might not show it but did care for every member of the family, which was not small in any way, their neighbours and well-wishers, wouldn’t mind getting their footwear repaired again and again because they wanted to save a penny to pay for children’s fee, nobody would hesitate to knock the doors even at odd hours, marriages or social events would see everyone coming forward and sharing the responsibilities without complaints, and much more.

Those were the days when a good scolding by a father or uncle for any wrongdoings would not be looked down on, elders wouldn’t complain to the teacher if the child was punished in school for not completing the task, wouldn’t sleep if the children were in difficulty, wouldn’t even think of life without their parents in the home, wouldn’t forget to consult their siblings on any occasion. Those were the days when parents and grandparents, uncles and aunts would all live under one roof, wear what was provided, eat what was cooked, play in the open fields, study with old books and yet be happy. Joys and sorrows of life will be shared by every member of the family. This does not mean, however, mean that all sorts of goodness and noble thoughts prevailed; slyness was handled in a way that the dignity of the person was not compromised. Family values meant big.

Gradually time changed. Modern-day India has come a long way. The ways of life have changed. People have individual houses, they have individual cars, they go for parties and family outings, they send their children to the best schools and buy expensive clothes, take no time in filing a complaint against the teacher for punishing children, and maintain a standard of living, have all modern gadgets in their homes, meet only those who matter, give gifts to prove their status, etc, etc. 

After 75 years of independence, the life of an Indian is completely transformed. Ethics and moral values are forgotten, selfish thoughts rule the minds, social responsibilities have taken a back seat, and greed and avarice make them corrupt and selfish. Running after personal wealth, materialism, and purchasing several properties, even if not required, collection of precious jewellery defines prosperity. Ego, ill- temperament, ill- feelings, show-off, jealousy, and ‘I don’t care' attitude is what define modern Indian society. Lots of elderly are spending days in old-age homes, young ones make families but keep their children in crèches because career and earning are more important than the family.

You call somebody but they will respond saying, ‘busy in a meeting, will talk later'. And that ‘later’ would never come if you don’t have value for them. You fix a date for having lunch with your brother and his family. You arrange a get-together with friends. Be thankful even if this happens because there are others who won’t hesitate to ‘detox’ their relationship with you if you don’t meet their expectations. Your profile becomes the criteria of relationship. Don't be surprised if the same people return shamelessly to you when your fortunes change someday.  

Somewhere in the process, we have lost the fun of life, the joy of togetherness, the happiness that comes with sharing, the feeling of making sacrifices to respect relations, or the contentment that comes with simplicity. We don’t look at the sky anymore, don’t count the stars, do not enjoy the full moon, do not sit on the riverside, don’t stroll in the market, the concept of window shopping has diminished, evenings with uninvited friends or neighbours are not in the list anymore. The value of 'sitting idle' for some time, not doing anything today is not even in our remotest thoughts. Barging into a cousin's home or a friend's home is bad etiquette. We don't laugh anymore! instead, we smile.  Of course, loud laughing has become a morning exercise in a club or with a group of people. 

It would be appropriate to quote here a poem by William Wordsworth:

THE WORLD IS TOO MUCH WITH US

The world is too much with us; late and soon,

Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers;--

Little we see in Nature that is ours;

We have given our hearts away, a sordid boon!

This Sea that bares her bosom to the moon;

The winds that will be howling at all hours,

And are up-gathered now like sleeping flowers;

For this, for everything, we are out of tune;

It moves us not. Great God! I’d rather be

A Pagan suckled in a creed outworn;

So might I, standing on this pleasant lea,

Have glimpse that would make me less forlorn;

Have sight of Proteus rising in the sea;

Or hear old Triton blow his wreathed horn.

 

MANY MORE ISSUES TO HANDLE

Seventy-five years of independence and lots of progress in technology, prosperity, modernisation, strengthening of the economy, development of society, better roads,  improved mobility, bigger industries, modern education system, vast media, stronger democracy, cultural growth, better health services, awareness for rights, fashion and fast life. Today’s India is different. The story, however, does not end here. It has its side effects too! Today’s family is more isolated, an individual is alone because there is no company, there are growing instances of depression, physical inactivity, avoidance has become a habit and an apathetic attitude defines the personality. We have become selfish and hesitate to think of others, 'me first, you afterwards' is the way of thinking, 'owner's pride, neighbours' envy' is what defines us; materialism rules.  

RESTORE THE LOST GLORY BEFORE 100^th INDEPENDENCE DAY

Besides several social disorders, modern-day society grapples with many serious issues. One such issue is the growing communal divide. Our forefathers who lived in perfect harmony with people of all faiths are nothing but a dream in modern-day social structure.

Those were the days when brotherhood among different communities existed. Today things have become from bad to worse, trust is lost, goodwill is replaced by ill-will, love is on the wane, and respect for each other vanishes. Adding fire to the fuel are politicians who spare no opportunity in inciting people for the sake of votes and to win an election. Communal divide and enmity in the society are like fodder for their success in political life. How can they douse the fire if they have to see a bright political career?

Once again the seeds of bitterness among people of different faiths are taking roots. India has already lost Pakistan as well as East Bengal in the form of Bangladesh. Mistrust has taken its toll. The result is that geographically India stands reduced in size. Size matters, indeed.  Imagine our world presence if the two were with us, intact! We cannot afford more division based on religion.  

We have to open our eyes and settle down on the matter if we want to see a glorious India on 100^th Independence Day. Vote bank politics, the declining level of politics, poor political leadership, and politicians with zero credibility are doing more harm to society than any good. It is time we look at politics of sacrifices and politicians with credibility.

Growing pollution, environmental issues, women's safety, education for all, health services for every person, curbing corruption, etc are some factors that need immediate attention.

India has awoken to its freedom; needs to awaken further to make life happier. One can anticipate a wonderful 100^th Independence Day twenty-five years from now. Second Opinion feels a strong, honest, dedicated, and determined political will, and an efficient, honest and more professional workforce will make India stronger, better, and more beautiful. The countdown begins now!

Listen to a fantastic, memorable patriotic song by A R Rahman