India’s Republic Day and Independence Day are the most important national events. If we took our democracy seriously, these two days would be celebrated as people’s festivals in an atmosphere of joy and freedom. But right from the start in post British India, PM Nehru chose Soviet style display of military might through a sarkari parade to mark the Republic Day , whereby citizens become mere passive spectators. Similarly, Independence Day on August 15, involves a pompous flag hoisting ceremony at Red Fort in Delhi as well as all state capitals and district head quarters–followed by boring self congratulatory speeches by political leaders . Here again, people remain passive witnesses. This contrasts sharply with how Americans celebtrate their Independence Day on July 4 every year . The day is marked by citizen-led parades, dance and music by ordinary citizens, community gatherings, fireworks, people’s bazars, community cooking and festivities in which old and young, children and adults partake spontaneously.
This video is not against showcasing the prowess of our armed forces. They deserve special respect and gratitude for the enormous sacrifices they make to keep the nation secure. They ought to have a special day to demonstrate their heroic exploits and accept the gratitude of citizens. But the Republic Day or Independence Day should not be dull sarkari events amidst heavy security in which the public has no role. These two days should be owned by the people whose participation will bring in joy and creative energy, as happens during the traditional festivals owned by people, such as Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Janmashtami , Deepawali etc. Watch till the end and dtell us what you prefer: Sarkari celebrations or people’s festivals to mark national events?
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