Yet another Republic Day has arrived and tricolour seems to be the flavour of this weekend with many institutions hoisting the flag.
On the occasion, Metrolife got a couple of youngsters talking about the importance of the day and what it means to them.
While a few did not seem to relate to the day or the concept, there are those who
follow it with much enthusiasm and celebrate it in full fervour.
Aravind Anand, a third-year student, observes both Independence Day and Republic Day but he strongly feels that only those who have lived during the freedom movement will be able relate to its significance.
"I may not relate to what it means completely but the least I could do is hoist a flag and be part of the celebrations," says Aravind.
Jay Aswani, a class eleven student of Army Public School, feels people should
respect and honour the essence of Republic Day rather than merely hoist a
flag as a symbolic display of patriotism.
"More than preaching about the day, the young must strive to understand the importance of it and remember those who have sacrificed their lives for us because of which we walk freely and fearlessly today," reasons Jay.
But people like Radhika Rao, a young professional, feels not enough is being done to make today's generation more aware of the history and struggles involved in the freedom movement.
"For most youngsters, it's another holiday and it's the same for me too. Unless we are told what the significance the day holds for us, we wouldn't know. There isn't as much hype for Republic Day as there is for Independence Day," she explains. There are a few youngsters like Neema Nair, a student of BMS College of Engineering, who are not only proud to hoist the flag but think young people must work for a better India.
"Ours is a colourful nation and the Republic Day festivities are about the coming together of different cultures and traditions," she says and adds, "Young Indians must work hard not only for a secular nation but also for a secure one." Twenty one-year-old Varun V N, who has always been part of the NCC and NSS activities in school and college, feels the least youngsters can do, for all those who have laid their lives down for the country, is to respect and remember them.
"I have always ensured my participation in all Republic Day events, especially when the national anthem is sung and flag is hoisted," he concludes.