"Independence: A Journey Beyond Boundaries"

This is the proud moment for the nation as we gear up to celebrate 77 years of independence, a moment that demands remembrance of the struggles, sacrifices, and victories that have shaped our history.

But as we unfurl the tricolor and sing the national anthem, it also suddenly seems like a pause to ponder. What does independence truly mean to us today? How far have we actually come, not as a nation, but as people in that free land?

Independence is the real essence of that term, which is much more than the political freedom achieved by us in the year 1947. It goes down to the very core of our existence—our thoughts, actions, and beliefs.

While our forefathers had fought to free us from the chains of colonial rule, the question which today has brought our attention together is how free are we in our day-to-day lives? Are we actually free, or are we shackled by invisible chains, restraining us to fulfil our potential?

Independence of Thought

Let's start with our thoughts. How many of us, in the information-overloaded, social-media-influenced, and society-expectation-driven world, take a break to think—really and independently? Are our thoughts genuinely ours, or are we imitating the voices and opinions of others? True freedom of thought relates to an ability to critically think, question the status quo, and dare to think of ideas divergent from the mainstream.

Yet, a vast majority of us still toe popular beliefs, fear to place our opinions, or suppress innovative ideas for the fear of the lash of the critics. This Independence Day, let us go in search of intellectual freedom—freedom of exploration, innovation, and dreaming. Let us encourage a culture of open-mindedness and curiosity in which differing perspectives are considered valuable and creativity is grown.

Independence in Actions

Next, consider our actions. Like, in our daily living, do we really live with autonomy, acting in accordance with our distilled values and principles? Or are we often found handcuffed to others'—family, society, workplace—expectations? True independence in action means having the courage to make choices that go at the cost of our inner convictions when things go against the grain.

Far too often, it is the fear of failure, the desire for approval, or the need for acceptance that drives us. Real progress, though, is built by those who dare to act otherwise: to take risks and pave their own way. This year, my personal resolve is to exhibit integrity and authenticity in ways that reflect my true self and bring added value to those around me.

Beliefs of Independence

Now let's consider reflection with respect to our beliefs. It is an independent belief in the country, as diverse as ours, with numerous cultures, religions, and ideologies co-existing. Are we open-minded enough to gain an understanding and respect for others' perspectives and differ from this, or do we hold on to prejudices and stereotypes? True belief in independence is being diverse, promoting inclusivity and standing up against discrimination.

In a world growing so polarized, echo chambers are easy to move into, where our beliefs are are only ever reconfirmed. True independence means being different, listening, learning, and being different. This year, let us make an oath to expand our horizons, question our biases, and to kindle a fire of understanding and unity.

The Way Forward

The road ahead from this milestone is clear: to make independence not merely an historical achievement, but a living reality in our daily lives. This year, let us be the ones finally freeing ourselves from shackles of mental, emotional, and social conditioning. Let this year augur towards independence of the real kind, in the thoughts we hold, the actions we take, and in the things we believe.

The road from human to truly human is the road to liberation. It's a route that charges us with courage, reflexivity, and deep dedication toward growth. As we clock 77 years of freedom, let us walk this journey together so that we learn not only to survive but to truly grow.

On Independence Day, may we be inspired to live true, purposeful lives and believe in the strength of togetherness and love, for it is only when we are truly independent in our minds, spirits, and hearts that we can be free.

Jai Hind

Vishwanathan Ramchandran (V! Ram)