National holiday

I quite agreee with Mr Tharoor as he suggests that instead of enjoying a holiday on October 2, we all should put in extra hours of work. Or I would say, at least get indulged in certain activities which are in sync with the Mahatma's teachings and his philosphy.

But, if not for a holiday, who would remember October 2 as the day for Mahatma Gandhi's birthday. Thats what it has come to be today. As it is supposed to be a nation wide dry day, the enthusiastic and foresighted citizens stock up their pile of booze much in advance to enjoy the long weekend and say cheers to another reason for a fixed national holiday.

Actually,there is no point blaming any of these individuals or anyone else. In order to first understand the true importance of people who have made a significant impact on our country, the people of the nation need to build a strong character, which is linked to the welfare and progress of the nation.

But then again, the common man, people like me have responsibility of running their respective houses. It is easy to say that this is for the Government to ensure that the true values of great leaders like Gandhiji are communicated effectively to people.

Which in a way is happening. Children across the country have chapters in their NCERT books on the great man and many other great men of the country. But thats where it stops. This post is not aimed at accusing people for forgetting Gandhi, but it is definitely aimed at understanding that why the majority of the current generation does not either know about the great examples of our history or if it does, then why it chooses to ignore it.

It is now that I realise that there is no better read than history of the country and the world. A thorough understanding of the key events that shaped the face of a nation can only help build the much required character. Besides that, an individuals respect for a leader will also increase manifolds, once he realises the intellect level of that person.

Try reading the Discovery of India and one would get a first hand glimpse of the statesmanship of Nehru. Not only that..his tremendous knowldge of world affairs and moreover the respect that such leaders commanded from the super powers of the world, when India was not even independent, goes on to show their stature.

Practicing the values suggested by these leaders may not be possible in these times, but what is possible is a realisation of the historic past that our nation has had. This sense of pride alone will change the way we look at national holidays.

August 15, Januray 26 and October 02 will have a whole new different meaning.