By Meenakshi Saxena, Executive Director, AMG Group: Citizen of India, Resident in Mauritius
Being a mother with Indian roots, it’s hard to express the depth of my “Desk Bhakti” (patriotism) to my children Aahana (12) & Aaryan (9), especially when they are growing up in a foreign land. On 15th August, while I am filled with pride and nostalgia, all they see is a day for extra sweets and treats. They don’t fully understand the importance the day holds for me.
India is at the core of my identity, while my kids will always face an identity crisis, it’s a sad reality, but one that’s unavoidable. It’s obviously because they live in two different worlds, one rooted in DNA and heritage, the other in the land of their birth. I admit that they do notice and sense the emotions when I see the Indian flag fluttering in the wind or when tears fill my eyes as I sing or hear the National Anthem. Yet, I wonder if they truly understand the weight of it all.
They are expected to honour the culture, history, and traditions of our homeland, but they also need to blend into the society they call home. As a result, explaining and celebrating national day of their parents’ country becomes a delicate balance of pride, confusion, and curiosity for them, as they try to make sense of both worlds at once.
This made me think that how the first generation of Indians who came to Mauritius celebrated their homelands’ Independence day in an independent resident country, Mauritius. The emotions may differ on the respective countries’ Independence Days, but the honour and respect for the country should remain the same!
I am very glad that my kids know the National Anthem of their birthland, Mauritius by heart. However, its not the same case with India’s National Anthem but I am happy that they respect it and embrace it with pride.
I recall how, during our childhood in India, the most charming part of Independence Day was the flag hoisting ceremony at school. The National Anthem played right after the flag was hoisted, giving us goosebumps. Participating in cultural programs and receiving laddus at the end of the celebration was iconic. The entire city would be fully decorated by white, green and saffron colour flags and patriotic songs would be played throughout. As students, we often participated in various quiz and debate competitions related to Indian history, and also took part in cultural programs. One of my best memories is witnessing the flag hoisting and the parade of the Indian Armed Forces at the Red Fort in Delhi, representing my school on that special day. Evening would mainly be with relatives and close friends, sharing traditional food in honour of the occasion. After all, it was a celebration of community bonding.
While these traditions once formed the heart of Independence Day celebrations, things have evolved over time. With advancement of digital platforms, social media, and a globalized world, today’s Generation Z’s (Gen Z) & Gen Alpha expressions of Desh Bhakti (patriotism) may not look traditional, but their love for the country is expressed in a modern, powerful way.
Gen Z defines patriotism through activism, awareness, and action. They use the internet as a tool for change, promoting social causes, raising their voices against injustice, and spreading awareness about world peace through memes. They are considered global citizens, learning to appreciate the values and traditions of both countries, embracing their heritage while feeling proud of where they are being raised.
Thanks to the awareness provided by online platforms, it has become easier for parents to help their children understand how India was under British rule for almost 200 years and gained its independence on 15th August 1947. Mesmerising glimpses of parades and cultural programs are easily accessible on TV and social media, allowing them to experience the significance of the day.
Bollywood also plays a significant role in this. Movies are a great way to showcase the struggles of freedom fighters through real and untold stories. These films bring to life the courage, determination, and patriotism of the leaders who fought for India’s freedom. Such stories continue to inspire audiences from one generation to the next. Films like Lagaan, Gandhi, The Legend of Bhagat Singh, and Rang De Basanti have become iconic in portraying the journey to freedom, blending entertainment with education.
As a proud Indian, I always explain my children that soon India is going to be 3rd largest economy in the world and it is a fastest growing nation.
India is not just evolving but redefining its role in the 21st century. We are a powerful nation, and surely, together we can make it happen. We are making continuous progress in IT, Renewable energy, digital world, education, and healthcare.
At the same time, the government’s push for infrastructure development, Make in India, and sustainable growth is helping create more opportunities, lifting millions out of poverty, and paving the way for a stronger, more resilient economy.
India follows “Unity in diversity” which highlights India’s strength in embracing its cultural, religious, and linguistic differences while prioritizing the nation’s collective well-being. It reminds us that despite our diverse backgrounds, coming together for the country’s progress and harmony is essential for enduring resilience and growth.
I would like to wish All Indians across the globe Happy 78th anniversary of Independence day. Jai Hind!
