Freedom to ask?
In a few days time it will the 61st anniversary of India’s independence from the British Raj.
We celebrate this day as a national holiday and thanks to multiple channels are not even bound to hear the speeches being made from the ramparts of the Red Fort if we happen to switch on the television. The fact that most markets are closed however is a nuisance since we can’t exercise our freedom to shop.
And even catching a movie is not always possible either because we didn’t book in advance or the shows are houseful or cause we live in a metropolitan city and are afraid of a terror attack on an important day such as this.
So what do we do?
We laze about at home, have something nice to eat and drink (provided we were smart enough to stash away booze beforehand, it being a dry day and all that). And if a neighbor or friend happens to drop by we discuss the completely pathetic state of affairs of the country. How it’s being led by donkeys and it can only lead to ruin. How we are planning to go abroad or are atleast hoping our kids will once they grow up.
We do all this and while away the day that is if we haven't been smart enough to book rooms at the nearest hill station or getaway and are not there already doing touristy things . In that case evening arrives when mercifully the malls open up and we take the family out for some shopping and dinner after all it’s a holiday isn’t it?
Since this is what the Independence Day finally boils down to, I thought I should ask you what does it all mean or does it at all mean anything anymore?
Do answer:
What does independence mean to you?
Which for you is your most important freedom?
When was the last time you felt great pride in being an Indian?
Which moment in your own life you feel best symbolizes freedom?
Do put down your answers in my comment box or take this up as a short tag if you please but please do answer one and all.
Comments
The most important freedom to me is that of letting a child grow as nature wanted it to grow.
The last time I felt pride in being an Indian was when I did a Pappu-Dance upon hearing that Bindra won a Gold in Beijing.
I feel free when I know I have done my duties well, when I have not skipped the red-light and when I have not spitted on the road.
:: independence to me, means living and letting live.
:: the freedom of opinion. but this MUST go hand in hand with the knowledge that opinions are subjective. and i must not coerce anyone else into agreeing or disagreeing with me. to each his own.
:: this morning, when i read about abhinav bindra on the net.
:: my choice to work in b'bay. despite having good offers in my home town. that choice shaped me in a lot of ways. and i believe my parents could've curbed that freedom, but they didn't.
disclaimer: all these are top of mind answers.. so may vary on a different day.
The most important freedom for me is our civil liberties.
Great pride...ummm...just happened yesterday only...Abhinav Bindra winning a Gold medal in Beijing.
As for the moment, when I wake up every morning to see the beautiful sunrise and then think over what we will be doing for the entire day, I think this is the best moment when we can feel our freedom.
Have a wonderful forthcoming Independence Day!
Personally freedom for me, is the ability to make choices to live my life without having to kowtow to people or societal expectations.
Pride in being Indian, yesterday. I was watching Bindra getting up to the podium and the flag was being hoisted up with the national anthem - and i teared up. I cant believe i did to be honest, thought I was far too cynical, but apparently there is hope yet.
Ok tag was done here only. Happy Independence day to you.
Case in point education being imparted by schools run by various religious bodies which in the guise of education also teach a lot of narrow thoughts.
and yes Bindra did us all proud.
Hey rayshma ....loved this "independence to me, means living and letting live" ...this I feel is the crux of it all.
Flying stars...the freedom to move freely is great but are we able to truly exercise it? Think J&K, think states in the North east, think even the beaches of goa for that matter.
very few and those who do choose to ignore those who could do with a helping hand.
And now here r my answers Pinku:
**What does independence mean to you?
Being able to be myself without treading on the Individuality of another.
**Which for you is your most important freedom?
Being me, doing what I like and want to do.
**When was the last time you felt great pride in being an Indian?
Im not Indian by birth but I dun take pride in my NATIONALITY. I take pride in HUMANITY.
**Which moment in your own life you feel best symbolizes freedom?
Right now...being myself, expressing what I believe, w.o. being restricted to suit the masses.
Keshi.
Freedom of expression is the most important freedom.
When Tata Motors, a completely Indian MNC, bought Jaguar and Land Rover, two of the most premium brands which spell luxury, it marked India's arrival on the global stage. This was the moment I felt truly proud of being an Indian.
The very fact that I can embark on a career of my choice means freedom to me.
What does independence mean to you?
~The right to say 'no'.
Which for you is your most important freedom?
~I love to be myself, and not to hav to wear a mask and roam around.
When was the last time you felt great pride in being an Indian?
~Can't say everyday but, most recent was a few hours ago. Watched the indian featherweight boxer win and offered his hand to his opponent who just pulled himself away and refused to shake his hands.
Which moment in your own life you feel best symbolizes freedom?
~The lazy and dull hours that I spend staring at blank walls or moving clouds.
~Hemanth.