An Independent nation's predicament

With the usual dilemma of how to celebrate Independence Day, I stepped out of home this morning with my daughter in tow -her only incentive being the éclair that usually is the flag hoisting sweet that my apartment’s residents society distributes on Independence day. The event itself did not begin before multiple announcements on the public address system goading the citizenry to come down. Many agonizing minutes later the flag was hoisted followed by the patriotic singing of the national anthem which most of the folks from the generation after mine could barely sing. The oldest gentleman in our society delivered a very energetic but nostalgic speech glorifying the achievements the nation had managed in these 63 years.

I often wonder about the nation’s journey and importantly the whole Idea of India and its multiple predicaments. It is generally believed that the people get a nation that they deserve and also the vice versa. While I agree with the probably septaugenarian gentleman this morning who proudly listed all the great achievements in various fields viz science, technology, medicine, economics, education etc. I have never been convinced that freedom actually brought societal stability or affluence. We are still as heterogeneous as a nation, cynical as a society than probably most of the 120 countries that became independent from some sort of colonial domination between 1947 and 1962. Some of these countries tried to make such changes too quickly and the process to introduce affluence, order while still trying to maintain the new found freedom and ended up in one party rule, neo-colonial domination, dictatorship or plain anarchy (You can see it all in the neighborhood). I am proud when it comes to India having managed to retain its democratic framework while silently triggering off revolutions in economic development and prosperity. Critics may argue that this is a pittance when compared to where we should have been in the 60+ years. Back in school, we were taught that India survives on two virtues –democracy and pluralism. Interestingly both of these ideas consummate the strength of my country and also challenge it so much (all the bandhs, free speech and the freedom of the press). The beauty of this nation is that we are pluralist and not monist. Our founding fathers had never thought about achieving a nationhood by flattening religions, linguistic variety and cultural differences, but by harmonizing them and building on them. Sometimes, it does seem that the ideological difference is bigger than national pride. But in the end, I am confident that my country will emerge stronger and elements on the fringe will realize the rational and see the value of growing with this great nation. A nation where as simple as a game of Cricket can be the binding force which can bestow a distinct Indian character to nationalism.

While the celebrations end as the flag is lowered in the evening, thoughts race as the nation prepares for another week of nation building. Does anyone remember anything more than what has to be done on a Monday morning? Isn’t it a question of existence after all? Life has to continue and thank god-it is a Monday again!

An incredible nation, my lovely motherland full of vibrant cultural heritage and spiritual mysticism - what more can i say but ' I ♥ India '