Dear India,
A very happy 69th independent birthday to you. I feel lucky that I was born in this independent country, an independence hard earned after a struggle of almost 200 years. I am glad to call myself a citizen of a sovereign, independent, and secular state, though with time these are just becoming mere words, as you grow more young with every passing year. However, I still have faith in you and us - the citizens of the state - that we will be fine, more than we are right now. Although this faith wobbles every morning when I open the newspaper, I still hold strong.
Every nation has problems, and we fight it together, in every way we can, but having the world's largest democracy and the constitution doesn't help all the time. Nevertheless, we are still together, aren't we?? In spite of the having more political parties compared to the hairs, we have in our body. So instead of highlighting the difference, problems, and tensions that still exist, today of all days I would like to celebrate your independence, happily. I am happy to touch the dirt in my garden and say that its mine, in every way possible. I am glad that I am not treated on the basis of my skin color when I avail public transport or apply for a job. I am glad that I am not looted and gagged and beaten up for demanding my basic rights.
Your birthday is like my birthday, we were both born after a lot of bloodshed. But still, I celebrate it, because it was finally the beginning of something new after centuries of oppression. I do agree that in many ways we are still not free even after having the independent tag hanging down from our necks. However, I am also sure, we'll mend our ways, as we have always done. You and I are just one of those slow learners, so I am not leaving your side. India, in spite of the faults that people point out in you, you are mine and there is no other place I would rather be. Thus, let's just celebrate your birthday with all pomp and pride.
Happy Birthday,
Lots of Love .....
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