Independence woes....


For several years I had followed a clear pattern...when everyone else caught up with their sleep, I was awake and ready for work...because I would be on duty either reading news or giving commentary at the strategic spots where the national ceremonies took place. Being awake meant a great deal to me...it meant, I , along with the soldiers who were standing guard at various posts around the country had an important task and I could not fail my country. Sounds pompous, but if you do not take pride in your work and in your calling, who will?  How could I expect anyone to listen to me? 


Today, on these special days, as I watch my neighbourhood slowly awaken, I think back to those moments....the thrill of listening to Indira Gandhi / Rajiv / Narasimha Rao / Atal Bihari Vajpayee and a host of others at the Red fort, the excitement of the ceremonies as they unfolded before me, the bright faces that attend such functions, the crispness of the uniformed personnel,. ...the palpable tension before the prime time news bulletin....the knotting of your stomach, the sudden sharpness of breath..... even today I can feel the thrill. It was my moment...when I had the audience completely to myself..... I loved it...and still do....


But now I see such days as legit excuses to sleep a little more...to not follow any patterns.... to break routines and indulge.....to sit back and reminiscence....to jog one's memory and recall events, people and special moments. Today I listen to patriotic songs belting out from the community hall...children still forced to dress up and play out adult fancies....why do we make them sing songs and parade and salute and wear costumes and run races and all that?....can't we leave them alone?....or maybe we shouldn't...how else will they remember what this day is? How will they understand why we celebrate such occasions while others will go for a movie, party or sleep in?


Freedom !!