Remembering Independence...

Independence. Something that every soul strives for. Some factor that increases self-respect, self-confidence and self-love. An ethical egoism for a comfortable livelihood. Where personal space is given utmost importance. Sometime when the 'Don't intrude' and 'I can do what I want' signs are seen. Oops, the last phrase just slides into arrogance.

When Independence can mean SO much to an individual, that SO much multiplied by n (the population) = the required amount of it for a nation. Only such an amplified, burning desire for the ever-cherished, ever-sought after Independence did free us, the Indians, from the British monopoly. Stepping into the 64th year has not been a graceful affair. Fair enough. But as a citizen, one can ponder about this.    Am I respecting my compatriot? No matter how different he is. The difference here is in terms of culture, gender, class, religion, caste, economic status. And the respect includes what we are supposed to be doing if we find him in a troubled position ( It should actually be - if he find him in a state less than equal to ours). To think of it now, Are we (as a nation) really independent ? Do we really have the sense of unity? Availing independence day offers, sending text - picture messages-mails- wishing people and most importantly, enjoying the holiday makes us just (apathetic!) city-zens. We can just debate if India will become a superpower by 2020 (that's a decade from today). We can only see the shining India.

   What about the malnourished, the uneducated, the maoists-naxalites-terrorists, the erratic weather, the urbanization, the screwed up judiciary, the caste census etc etc etc? Interfacing all these with the superpower dream..and there we go..blank. Munch on. Keep thinking. By the way, A very Happy Independence Day to you.