
Independence Day: Are We Really Feeling Free?
Independence Day: Are We Really Feeling Free?
Today, I started my day thinking about what Independence Day means to us. I went out with my wife in Chandigarh, hoping to see the excitement, pride and spirit of people celebrating our freedom. But honestly, what I saw left me deeply disheartened. In malls, restaurants and shops, I saw many ordinary working people who seemed tired, frustrated and far from happy.
We hear about India becoming a Vishwaguru, a rising global power and one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. And perhaps there is truth in that progress. But I can’t stop wondering: are we also becoming a happier, healthier and more hopeful society? What does economic growth mean if the person serving your food, working at a shop, driving your cab or simply trying to make ends meet doesn’t feel that life is getting better?
Maybe this is just what I happened to see today. Maybe I’m looking at it from the wrong perspective. But on our Independence Day, I genuinely want to ask fellow Indians: Do you feel that we are truly progressing in terms of quality of life, happiness, dignity and hope—or are we only becoming richer on paper while ordinary people continue to struggle?