Wednesday, January 26, 2005

The Republic Day

26th January. The 'nation' celebrates it's 55th Republic Day. And how! The government organises a parade of its developmental projects, advancements in science and technology, and the might of it's military. Awards are handed out. Song, dance and spectacle characterizes the day, patriotic films are screened, patriotic songs pour forth from any music station tuned into.

Was this how it was meant to be celebrated? The day which should have honored the spirit of freedom, courage, strength, and endurance of a fledgling state has become a parody of the sentiments it set out to eulogize. The celebration is of military prowess, where is the spectacle of poverty in it? India is still one of the poorest countries in the world, but do we pledge for a helping hand? No. The Parade reflects the development in various walks of life, where is the continuing huger, thirst, illetracy, uneducatedness in it? Is there any promise of equality of opportunities? No. Our laders pay their respects to the Amar Jawan Jyot, where is the concern for handicapped armed forces personnel or for the widows and orphans of the martyrs? A public display is made of the private overwhelming grief of their widows and parents, but they still run from pillar to post even to receive their dues.

Children are not even aware of the significance of the day. For them it is a school holiday, meant to be enjoyed with their parents at some park or eatery or some mall. For others like maids or labourers, it is just another day when their better offs enjoy while they work to get that essential evening meal in their homes. The celebration is now just limited to the yearly parade and the speeches of the leaders and the songs and movies screened on tv or radio. Nobody would even be aware of the Republic day or its significance without the observation of these rituals.

Should not all this change? Wouldn't it be better to put in the money used in the arrangements to some better use like making available basic amenities to the needy? Every paisa helps if properly channeled.

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