Written on Saturday August 15, 2009
This independence day, I wish that my country(wo)men:
* Remember the greatness of India and its values while striving to do well materially
* Contribute to the country (whether from India or outside it) and not just know four things: ka, kha, gha and ma (ka: kaam karna – work for a living; kha: khana – eat; gha: ghar banana – build a house; ma: marna – die)
* Will not be quick to trade our passports for easy visa access or easy entry into elite universities
* Stop blaming politicians and the ‘system’ and take responsibility for bringing about change
* Strive to root out all evil from our society – whether those linked to caste, regionalism, corruption, female infanticide, intolerance, etc.
* Fight against all forms of dicrimination
* Take their lives seriously and stop the ‘chalta hai’ (its okay) attitude
* Strive towards excellence in all spheres
* Strive to uplift those weaker than us – whether physically or materially
* Strive to live for others
* Promise to bring about one positive change to the lives of others – however big or small
* Learn to be happy always and spread this happiness around the world
Jai Hind!
