Moments when a billion Indians feel the most patriotic
What's the story
Every year, I cry when I see the Republic Day parade and I know I am not the only one. The fact that everyone in my office is playing patriotic songs is a testament to that.
Elites think it is jingoism, liberals (on Twitter) tell us how India is getting increasingly polarized, but an average Indian feels immense pride when he sees the spectacular tiranga.
Let's show them some josh, and let's not hold it back today.
Our pride
When ISRO launches a satellite
Of all the time we feel patriotic, ISRO launching a satellite tops the list. And, when you tell us the meagre budget they achieve the feat on, our chest swells with pride, its size indeed becomes the metaphorical 56-inch.
One can't wait for the Gaganyaan mission that will carry three astronauts into low earth orbit, following which they will spend 5-7 days in space.
Of course
When India wins the World Cup
If they want to unite us, we should all be baptised and adopt cricket as a religion. It is not for nothing that Sachin Tendulkar is considered God in this nation of a billion people, and a million Gods.
On a crappy day when our boss yells at us, a six by Virat Kohli, a win by PV Sindhu, a punch of Vijender Singh makes our day. Doesn't it?
Sports, like music, is a universal language.
Cliched but true
When Rahman sings 'Vande Matram'
Though Bollywood babas and their vested interests are questionable, but AR Rahman singing 'Vande Matram', or Lata Mangeshkar swooning 'Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo' evoke every emotion there is.
Without even realizing, you start singing along, you are reminded of how your forefathers sacrificed their lives for the freedom of this beloved nation, and you want to emulate them.
The song ends, and you forget all about it. But for those 5 heavenly minutes, you are one with your nation.
Reason
When they tell us about our history
Our politicians tell us the twisted history to suit their cause, and we know our History books have been intentionally plagued with errors. The Mughals have been glorified to seemingly stupid heights, and the valor of Hindus have been conveniently ignored.
Of all the things that we have copied from US, we missed emulating their love for their history.
But, oh boy, when our grandparents tell us about this nation they built post partition, our patriotism level reaches new heights.
Trumps the list
When you see the Tricolor on India Gate
This one could be personal, but nothing beats the sight of our magnificent tricolor being hoisted on top of a building, any building.
And, now imagine the sense of pride our faujis feel when they hoist the flag in Ladakh, at 18,000 feet height and in -30 degrees temperature. Mind you, they don't do it for Instagram likes.
Of all the flags in the world, I like mine the best. And you?
Personal
They can polarize us, we pledge we won't be affected
If you speak about your country fondly, the pseudo intellectuals will call you hyper nationalist. They will question your toxic ways, and will bring you down. But India is much more stronger than them. Let them hijack the narrative, you bask in the glory of this great nation. Jai Hind!