Are We Truly Independent? Reflections on India's Independence Day

This morning, my little one walked up to me with a big smile and said, "Happy Independence Day!" It was a moment that warmed my heart, yet it also sparked a thought deep within me. Are we truly independent? Are we living the life that those who laid down their lives for this nation envisioned?

Independence Day is a time to celebrate, but it’s also a time to reflect. The various struggles that led to India's independence were not just about breaking free from the clutches of colonial rule. They were about ensuring that every Indian could live a life of dignity, respect, and self-sufficiency. Our ancestors fought for a country where we wouldn’t be beholden to anyone, where we could stand on our own feet, proud and free.

But as I look around today, I wonder if we’ve truly achieved that vision. Yes, we have our freedom, but in so many ways, we are still dependent. Whether it’s for technology, energy, or even the basic goods that fill our homes, our reliance on other nations is undeniable. This isn’t to say that global cooperation and trade are bad—far from it. But when dependence starts to erode our self-reliance, it’s time to pause and think.

Isn’t it time we reflect on what real independence means? Isn’t it time we work towards living that independence in its truest form? We owe it to those who fought for our freedom, and more importantly, we owe it to our future generations. Abandoning this responsibility, citing reasons like population growth, lack of opportunities, or weak leadership, will only make things worse for those who come after us.

Instead, let’s choose to stand up and fight the circumstances. Let’s build the right platforms—education, innovation, infrastructure—that will allow our children and grandchildren to launch their lives from a place of true independence. They deserve a nation where they can thrive, where they can be creators and innovators, not just consumers of what others produce.

On this Independence Day, let’s not just celebrate the freedom we have; let’s commit to creating the freedom we need. For our nation, for our future, for our children.

Happy Independence Day to all! Let’s make it a day of action as well as celebration.