Yahoo! India Answers blog

We all had it drilled into our heads during civics class that India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic. The Preamble also goes to confer on all Indians Justice, social, economic and political; Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; Equality of status and of opportunity; and promotes among all of us Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation.

And yet, there is one defining moment in all our lives when we have felt that yes, we do live in an independent country.

For me, it’s not one but many moments – the fact that an initiative like Meter Jam can take place. The simplicity of traveling around the country without any need to justify one’s action. The fact that on this blog and other blogs like this, I can write what I want to write and not be hauled up for writing what I think.  And on a lighter side, it’s also the freedom to exchange hard words with a government employee if any work takes too long to get completed and not worry about being jailed.

There are many reasons I love India – but most of all it’s the people. People who will rush to help strangers when they think they need help. People who will smile at each other without any hidden agendas. People who uphold the gorgeous diversity and culture of India so seamlessly and with such joy!

Likewise, you must have an opinion of India and its freedom. There must have been one defining moment in your life when you would have felt that yes, we do live in an independent country. What was that moment for you?

When did you feel that India is truly an independent country?

Answer away or leave us a comment here.  And so let us celebrate India’s Independence Day this Aug 15.

- Bhumika Anand

Community Manager

On August 15, 2009 India will be celebrating its 62nd Independence Anniversary.

It’s a good time to wonder what the significance of the 62nd Independence Day is going to be.

Yesterday’s Page 3 supplement carried two young film stars promoting their new movie by turning guest editors of the paper. The paper was all about how Indians need the youth to guide them. It’s the age of the new youth who have very incisive questions for politicians but who refuse to enter politics themselves.

Which leads to the million-dollar question, what does India’s youth think about Independence Day? How will India’s youth reshape the 62nd year of freedom to something that will matter and benefit the country?

In the age of globalization and a flat world, what happens to the notion of patriotism? Is patriotism passe?

What does India’s freedom mean to you? What are your plans for August 15, 2009? Are you celebrating the 62nd anniversary?

Answer away or leave us a comment.

- Bhumika Anand

Community Manager