The Empty Symbolism of Independence Day Wishes

India marks its 80th year of independence with a flood of messages and quotes on social media platforms. Well-meaning individuals share wishes, quotes from freedom fighters, and images celebrating the tricolour. However, amidst the patriotic fervor, it’s easy to lose sight of what freedom truly means.

The Prime Minister’s flag-hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort and his address to the nation are traditional markers of India’s independence day celebrations. The Har Ghar Tiranga movement has become an integral part of these festivities, with tricolours waving high in homes and streets across the country. Yet, in this celebration, it’s easy to overlook what freedom entails.

Freedom is not something we inherit; it requires a continuous effort from each individual. As Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam astutely pointed out, “Freedom is not a state, it’s an act.” This statement underscores the importance of actively working towards maintaining and deepening our freedom.

Many quotes and messages being shared on social media are taken out of context or repeated without truly grasping their meaning. Jawaharlal Nehru’s words from 1947 remind us to step “out from the old to the new,” but do we understand the significance of this transition? Subhas Chandra Bose’s statement that “Freedom is not given, it is taken” resonates with many, but what does this mean in practice? These quotes are often reduced to empty symbolism, devoid of the historical context and meaning that gave them power.

Bhagat Singh’s words on revolution being an “inalienable right of mankind” challenge us to think beyond the celebration. What does it truly mean for freedom to be an imperishable birthright? Rather than merely paying lip service to its existence, we should reflect on how far we’ve come in ensuring this fundamental right.

The empty symbolism of Independence Day wishes also extends to the images being shared. Faces painted with tricolours, flags waving high, and patriotic messages plastered across social media feeds – while well-intentioned, lack depth and substance. They fail to convey the struggle, sacrifice, and blood that has been shed in the pursuit of freedom.

As we mark this 80th year of independence, let’s not get caught up in superficial trappings of patriotism. Let’s instead reflect on what it truly means to be free. What are we doing with our newfound freedom? Are we working towards making it a reality for all individuals, or are we simply paying lip service to its existence?

In this context, the words of Mahatma Gandhi take on new significance: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Perhaps it’s time for us to re-examine our understanding of freedom and what it requires. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar astutely pointed out that “Political tyranny is nothing compared to social tyranny.” We must address the deeper issues that threaten our freedom – not just celebrate its existence.

As we move forward, let’s work towards making freedom a lived reality for all individuals in this country. Let’s not get lost in empty symbolism and superficial trappings of patriotism. The real celebration should be about what we’re doing with our newfound freedom, rather than just marking its existence.

The coming years will bring us closer to the India that our freedom fighters truly envisioned – an India where every individual has access to fundamental rights they fought so hard for. But it’s up to us to make this a reality. The battle for true freedom is far from over; it requires continuous effort and action from each one of us.

As we close out this 80th year of independence, let’s work towards making freedom a lived reality for all individuals in this country, rather than just sharing empty wishes and quotes on social media.