Independence Day: Reality Check

I got up today with my usual routine of tuning into some retro hits on TV. Desh Bhakti songs playing in place of regular romantic numbers confirmed that today was Independence day. But not the usual mood, nothing to do with my patriotism but something was missing.

Priyanka Chopra (I wouldn’t want to call her Pig Chops, as the world seems to call her) gave a statement on how she is proud of India, Indian democracy, freedom to do anything and freedom of speech (Priyanka madam, try telling Bombay is the place where I stay), you will be reminded of the reality. I was not feeling as proud though, something was missing. This Independence day was feeling a bit insignificant. 

Its got nothing to do with the fact that there is a big violence happening in Kashmir, with our armed forces making the mistake of tackling the situation in the ways known to them. “An eye for an eye” is not something which our military understands. It probably needs a Munnabhai to tell them, “Woh, Ek Pattar maare, tum do maaro.” Collect all the stones they throw and throw it back on them. Surprise them, this is call “thinking out of the box”.

It has also got nothing to do with the fact that Maoists, (with or without political backing) are running a parallel government in some parts of India. Our governments are not able to do anything because the state governments don’t want to do anything and the central government thinks its outside their jurisdiction. Another Kashmir in the making.

It does not seem to be because of the fact that some idiotic politicians who could not make it big, want to create a separate state and a political ground for themselves. People like cattle don’t mind supporting their cause by putting their lives at risk. I really don’t know what difference it would make to a common man if he is from Andhra or Telegana, he still has to earn his own livelihood. Unlike politicians, who have ready made public money. 

It is also not because Indian cricket team is going to the dogs, in the name of preparing for world cup. Saurav Ganguly did this mistake last time around and paid price with first round exit. Dhoni (who I feel is the dumbest captain India has ever had) and his side kick K Srikanth seem to be making the same mistake again of trying to build to a team for future. World cup preparation is about playing good cricket and winning. World cup victory now seems to be dependant upon whether Dhoni’s luck plays with him or Srikanth astrologer friend predicts well. 

When the brain does not work, it’s the right time for meditation. You connect with your inner self to find answers. So, I spent a purposeful session in the loo, which is when I came up with the answer. I am not feeling as special this Independence Day because its on a Sunday. Any other day would mean, an additional holiday. I am not being unpatriotic by saying this but this is the reality today India wakes up to on an Independence Day. Wish it was tomorrow.