Independence!!!

National Anthem of India

During the 4th of July, someone stuck little American flags in everyone’s lawn; I let them be…they are still in some part of my yard. But, I don’t have the Indian flag flying in my yard. I have never drawn Rangolis or written messages on Independence Day. In fact, I have never been one to call myself patriotic. When I think of it, I guess I never really paid it much attention. I did not even engage in arguments about the state of our independent country. But this I know!! I have always loved my country.…

It seems like some old sentimental streak in me is getting more and more persistent. I started looking for videos and pictures of India. While on the net I noticed junta calling Jana Gana Mana the National Song of India…when did it become a song?? It’s the National Anthem for goodness’s sake!! An Anthem is very different from a song…Anyway, I found a few videos that I am celebrating this Independence Day with. Its 5 minutes to midnight and I am listening to Pandit Nehru’s ‘A Tryst with Destiny’ speech. And I am reminded of how the only time I liked wore flowers in my hair to school was during Independence Day – I made sure I wore Jasmine strung with very few orange flowers and green leaves. I suppose that does qualify for patriotism…

I don’t say it often enough…but I am so thankful to have the independence we do.
Happy Independence Day!!

The Speech -

http://www.harappa.com/sounds/nehru.html

http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/mod/1947nehru1.html