Dreams of tomorrow

While the country is all set to celebrate its 68th Independence Day, it is time to reflect and remember how far the nation has come and the progress it has made. A youngster’s perception of freedom is quite different from that of an older person. Many young people point out that true independence cannot be achieved until a woman can walk on the road without any fear. They rue the fact August 15 has become just another holiday. Not many people take time off to remember those who sacrificed their lives to free the nation from the British rule. 

Stories of sacrifice 

Raksha S Gaikwad, III year BA, Baldwin’s Women’s College, says, “People don’t seem to understand the relevance of Independence Day or Republic Day. Even flag hoisting seems to have become a symbolic process. It is imperative that the young people spend some time remembering those who got India its independence and the sacrifices made for the same.”

Mould the young 

Priyanka Naik, III year BA, Baldwin’s Women’s College, says, “For progress and development, India must concentrate on reframing its rules and laws like developed countries. The young must be considered as the engine of growth. They must be moulded and brought in the path of development. We need to inspire young people to come together as one force to take the country forward.” 

Just a holiday 

Shaila Shree, I year post-graduation, Ramanaidu Film School, says, “Today, not many people bother to introspect on the importance of the day, it is more like a holiday. Having said that, people should not be forced to celebrate Independence Day. It is a feeling that must come naturally and without having to force it on anybody. That spirit seems to be missing.” 

Martyrs forgotten?

Vaishnavi TN, II PUC Bishop Cotton Women’s Christian College, says, “We know about the martyrs from history books but that seems to concentrate only on a few people. There are a lot of people, including soliders, who have fought for the country. But all their names have gone missing and their contribution in gaining independence remains unsung.”

Lasting spirit

Misba Sharieff, II year PUC, Bishop Cotton Women’s Christian College, says: “The only time Indians actually pay respect to the nation is on Independence Day. And sadly, it is the only time when they express their patriotism. That’s not how patriotism and respect works, the feeling must be there all the time.”  Safety first

Namratha Lilly Krupa, I year MSW, St Joseph’s College: “Women don’t feel independent until there comes a time when we can walk free and fearlessly even in the middle of the night. Freedom is complete only when women feel safe everywhere and not have to depend on the cops for their safety. Today, women don’t really feel good walking on the streets alone.”