“A Nation’s culture resides in the Hearts and Souls of its people”
– Mahatma Gandhi
‘Nation First–Always First’ being the theme of India’s 77th Independence Day, the nation wants to host a number of activities that capture the spirit of the people’s long-standing struggle for freedom. Past year was marked as Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav meaning elixir of energy of independence, elixir of inspirations of the freedom warriors, elixir of new ideas and pledges.
This is the year 2023 and we are proudly celebrating completion of 76 Glorious years of victory. Last 76 years have witnessed many ups & downs, goods & evils irrespective keeping the oneness of the nation alive. Threads from numerous indigenous cultures are woven into the cultural tapestry of our country. We are a diverse nation and we proudly say at any international forum that there is no other nation with such a mix of languages, caste, creed, religion and the list is endless. Out of so much diversity our National Flag still stands tall touching the sky. Reason is just one that no matter whatever sect, caste, religion, political party we belong to, the only one thing which holds us and binds us together is the Tricolour.
August 15 is the date in our calendar the arrival of which every Indian right from top of the precedence up till the last man (irrespective of his origin) is seen standing for the same cause with both the toes joined, left hand fixed to the femur, right fist opened towards the Tricolour and enormous amount of energy flowing in the heart. The day is a mark of respect, pride and honour to each and every one of us. With PM’s heart touching actions like always, the Har Ghar Tiranga has also been a big hit. The very simple and yet effective style of Displaying Unity within the biggest democracies of the world is just phenomenal. Today, almost every house, building, office has displayed the Tricolour to honour the 76 glorious years which the nation has earned after uncountable sacrifices. Public offices, Army camps, civ societies and many others have come together to affix our Tiranga as high and tall as possible. Gathering a 140 mighty crore for a One National Cause in just 72 hours speaks volumes of our National Integrity and unity.
A food for thought is shared on what needs to be done immediately on August 16 to further continue display the respect for our nation.
The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act,1971 and the Flag Code of India, 2002 (amended on 19 July 2022), has laid down rules for the disposal of National Flag. The Tricolour after removal from the respective places on August 16, needs to be disposed-off in a dignified manner similar with what it was affixed. Burial is one of the procedures for disposal. Before being buried, all the flags must be collected, folded, and placed in a wooden box. After the box is buried a two-minutes silence to be observed. Another procedure for disposal is burning. Choose a clean and safe location for burning, the retrieved flags are first to be folded and placed in the centre of the flame. It is illegal to burn flag without folding or to light it before setting it ablaze.
The above described act has regularly been practiced by the Indian Army. However, the article has been circulated to share with people unaware about the disposal which is as sacred as hoisting the flag.
The practice can very well be implemented right till the last village of the country. Required support can be extended by Public offices/ Army bases in vicinity. Representatives who were instrumental in the door-to-door delivery of Tiranga may again walk an extra mile for a similar One National Cause.
On the occasion of ‘77th Independence Day’, can India take a pledge to ensure the sacred disposal of our National Flags which is of equal importance as hoisting it. Want to do something for the Nation… Be a citizen worth fighting for.
