That feeling of being Indian!

What a proud feeling it is to be an Indian citizen. To stand tall in front of the fluttering Triranga and sing '"Jana Gana Mana"'! It is so hard to describe in words. No one has the right to take that feeling away from an Indian. Yet, many times, we deprive ourselves of these patriotic feelings. I recall our motherland, its struggle, and glory every now and then to keep the patriotic feelings alive. We don't have to wait for Independence and Republic days to feel Indian.

The 77th Independence Day is a mark that a poor, deprived, and illiterate country 77 years ago is now on the path to becoming a glorious nation. India is raring to be a world leader, helping everyone possible on our way. However, all this and much more is a blessing because of the millions of sacrifices Indians made generations ago. It's our prime responsibility to show gratitude and be humble about our freedom. Freedom is so hard to earn and even harder to keep these days.

In this bipolar world where countries are fighting, India stands tall with open arms as a mighty and free country. We continue to grow and flourish each day. We owe this to the countless sacrifices of the Indians world over. I am confident that the millions of Indians, people of Indian origin abroad, and anyone remotely calling themselves Indians will help build a stronger India. Because our hearts are still filled with love for our motherland.

Everyone is patriotic by nature. It's just a few that express it, while many don't. I realized the farther we go from India, the more Indian we feel. When I was in India, the feeling of being Indian didn't come as often as everyone around was Indian. The distinction was more at a state or city level. However, during my travels, I often proudly declare myself as Indian. And I feel particularly proud in showing my dark navy with a golden Ashok chakra embedded passport at the Immigration desk. But I am aware even without any proof, we are very much an Indian everywhere we go.

Although I never had a chance to participate in the freedom struggle, I don't want to miss the opportunity to cherish the glorious stories of our freedom struggle. In the growing digital world where information is ample, it is easy to miss countless stories of the sacrifices that contributed to our Independence. It's humbling to read on anything that comes our way, even if this is only on the Independence or Republic day. And many times, we might not agree with everything written. However, we can take it with a pinch of salt. And if possible, correct ourselves when new information is brought to light without bias. I am acutely aware that history is made by many but written by only a few. It is more important that we don't forget our values, ethos, and beliefs. It sets us apart in any part of the world.

As we continue to grow and venture into the world, there is much to do. We need enormous efforts from each of us to be the best country and citizens in the world and beyond in every sense possible. But, we will need more effort to sit quietly and feel ourselves as Indians. Take some time, if you can, to feel Indian. It's such a blissful feeling. Jai Hind.