By: Nripendra Abhishek Nrip
“The blood of the martyrs of the nation has borne fruit;
the name of freedom is resounding throughout the world.”
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Independence Day is celebrated every year on the 15th of August as a divine occasion in the sacred land of India. This day is not just a national holiday but a national pledge, a day when we pay tribute to the struggle, unparalleled sacrifice, and infinite patience of all the brave fighters of India. It is a reminder of the values of our freedom and the importance of the struggle that countless brave souls fought to liberate this land.
The Struggle for Independence: The Saga of Heroes
India’s struggle for independence is an unprecedented example in world history, where people from various castes, religions, and cultures came together to fight for a common cause. The First War of Independence in 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was the first spark that laid the foundation for the struggle for India’s freedom. This rebellion demonstrated the widespread public outrage against British rule and proved that the patience of the Indian people had reached its limit.
But this was just the beginning. Movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Dandi March, and the Quit India Movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi, shook the very foundations of British power. The sacrifices of brave fighters like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Subhash Chandra Bose strengthened the freedom struggle. The Indian National Congress and other freedom fighter organisations made numerous efforts against the British, with non-violent movements like Satyagraha, sit-ins, and civil disobedience being the most prominent.
On August 15, 1947, India attained independence from the British Empire. This day became a symbol not only of political freedom but also of the victory of Indian culture, society, and civilization. Today, India proudly echoes across the world-
“The slogan of Hindustan is resounding in the world,
Our tricolour is shining in the sky.”
The Situation of India after Independence
After gaining independence, India was allowed to move towards a new era, but the challenges were no less. The tragedy of partition brought about severe social, religious, and economic problems, deeply affecting the newly independent nation. Millions were displaced from their homes, communal riots erupted across the country, and thousands of innocent lives were lost due to the division.
Following the partition, India reorganised itself. A Constituent Assembly was formed to draft the Constitution, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who created a Constitution that defined India as a secular, socialist, and democratic republic. On January 26, 1950, India adopted its constitution and established itself as a republic.
Under the leadership of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India stepped towards modernization. Through industrialisation, agricultural reforms, five-year plans, and investment in science and technology, the nation ensured its economic and social progress. India also based its foreign policy on the principles of neutrality and non-violence, with the Non-Aligned Movement playing a key role.
Challenges to Freedom in Contemporary India
Today, more than 75 years after independence, India is emerging as a global power. Despite economic progress, advancements in scientific research, and an increase in military capability, several challenges to freedom remain in contemporary India.
The foremost challenge is to maintain communal unity in India. Ethnicity, religion, and linguistic diversity are India’s strengths and, at times, a cause of crisis. Rising intolerance, communal tensions, and religious extremism in some areas have threatened the unity of the nation. This challenge stands in stark contrast to the fundamental principle of our freedom struggle, where people from different religions and castes fought together. As the saying goes-
“Why insist on riots and explosions?
Our India will remain undivided, unshakable!”
Another significant challenge is economic inequality. Although India has witnessed rapid economic development over the past few decades, problems such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality persist. The vast disparity in living standards between rural and urban areas, differences in access to education and healthcare, and the need for improvement in the social status of women direct us towards the true meaning of freedom.
The third challenge relates to freedom of expression. In a democratic country, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and freedom of thought hold immense importance. In recent years, many have expressed concern over restrictions imposed on these freedoms. The importance of dialogue between the government and the public is essential for the strength of democracy. If this dialogue is hindered, it would be against the spirit of freedom.
The fourth challenge is related to security. Terrorism, border disputes, and cyberattacks pose serious threats to the sovereignty and freedom of the country in the new age. It is essential that India strengthens its security apparatus and takes robust steps against terrorism in collaboration with the global community.
India’s Independence Day reminds us that we must remain vigilant in protecting and maintaining our freedom. Freedom is not just a right but a responsibility as well. We must remember the sacrifices of those brave fighters who gave their lives for this cause. Today, as we face the challenges of 21st-century India, we should be committed to building a prosperous, secure, and strong India by drawing inspiration from the struggles and ideals of our forefathers. It is our duty as Indians to preserve the fragrance of the soil of India-
“There is something special in this soil.
A unique feeling in this soil.
People don’t laugh in the face of death just like that.
The thirst for patriotism is in this soil.”
On this Independence Day, we should all renew the spirit of freedom within us and fulfil our duties towards the unity, integrity, and prosperity of the nation. This day is not just for celebration but also for self-reflection and reaffirmation so that India continues to move forward towards a bright future. If every Indian fulfils their duty, one day-
“The devotees of the nation will be of use to the nation.
We will make this land a heaven on earth.”
(The author can be reached at nripendraabhishek@gmail.com)
