The Indian Independence saga is one of the most bitter battle that was ever fought against foreign oppression. Several stalwarts fought against the Britishers and emerged winners after freeing India from the clutches of the Britishers. And, till today if we all speak anything that comes to our mind when we talk about Indian Independence, it the unflinching patriotism that was the base behind the struggle. You think and you have names that are there in our mind who have relentlessly fought to make India a free state. But, is that Patriotism is forgotten spirit in India today? Do we no longer have that feeling to do or die for the country? Do we no longer feel for the need for the betterment for the country?
Over the years, this country has seen changes that are beyond words. While there has been considerable progress in various field of art, science, education and sports, on the other hand there is a constant void that breeds from a lacklustre attitude towards the country. In simple words, there is no ownership that is expected from the citizens of the country. The government apathy has also fueled the attitude of the citizens who feel that it is the responsibility of the government to take care of the country. And, as a result neither the government nor the youth are pro in making things happen.
Sadly, not many people understand the fact that patriotism is not a feeling that can be pushed down the throat. It is a feeling that one just feels for the country. It is a feeling that stems when you have a feeling of oneness with the nation you are born and living in. You cannot be taught to feel patriotic, even though there have been several stances when the government machinery swung into action so that they can instil the feeling of patriotism in its citizen.
But, more than anything else, what probably breeds this unpatriotic stance towards the country, is a thing to ponder on. Well, this is an extremely debatable topic and it is difficult to lay your hands on a particular issue pertaining to it. The whole country is reeling under various thoughts and notions. Corruption, a botched up law and order, violence, lack of employment, inflation, degrading overall living standards and host of other problems in the country, probably are the reasons why the people of this country are increasingly feeling dejected with the way of things around. And, instead of feeling proud and patriotic about the country, one is feeling dejected and a feel of hopelessness creeps in.
Over the years, we have heard and read about incidents that speak volumes about what patriotism is all about. I guess it is yet again the time to go back to those tales and get inspired. It is important to understand the fact that patriotism is a selfless feeling that can neither be instilled or taught. Also, as a citizen of the country, it is the duty of each person to work towards the betterment of the country to bring about a colossal change in the society. If that is done wholeheartedly, the feeling of patriotism will no longer remain an alien feeling, but will be very much a part of our system and psyche.
