August is that time of the year when every Indian, young or old, is filled with a deep sense of patriotism. But patriotism is not just a word — it’s a powerful emotion. For me, it brings a wave of nostalgia, taking me back to my school days.
I remember donning a crisp white uniform, polished white shoes, and reporting to school early in the morning. The day would begin with decorating the school grounds with tricolour buntings. The base of the flag post would be adorned with colourful rangoli and fresh flowers. The air would be filled with a sense of pride and devotion to our nation.
The highlight of the morning was the chief guest hoisting the flag, followed by a respectful salute to the Tricolour. The marching parade and the school band echoed the spirit of freedom, and the National Anthem was sung with heads held high, voices unified in pride. This was followed by the distribution of sweets – a delight for every child – and the joy of a school day without heavy bags.
After the flag hoisting, we would participate in a march-past, imitating the grandeur of the armed forces’ parade at the Red Fort, with our band playing in full enthusiasm. Those were the days of Doordarshan – the only channel we had – and we would eagerly wait to watch the Parade of the armed forces and the Prime Minister’s Speech. Patriotic songs on television and radio added to the emotional resonance of the day.
However, patriotism is not limited to these symbolic gestures. It is not just about loving our country; it is about contributing meaningfully to its progress. True patriotism lies not only in defending our nation from external threats but also in confronting internal challenges — such as poverty, ignorance, superstition, corruption, and social injustice. These internal enemies are like termites slowly eroding the foundations of our society, economy, and cultural identity.
A true patriot is one who works selflessly and passionately for the betterment of the nation and its people. And this spirit must not be confined to an individual. Patriotism must be instilled in future generations — in our children — so that the nation’s progress remains continuous and sustainable.
Children should be educated about our country’s history, values, and struggles — not just at school, but also at home. Parents play a vital role, as children learn best through observation and example. Positive parenting involves nurturing a sense of gratitude and responsibility in children — helping them understand the value of freedom, and encouraging them to grow up as responsible citizens.
Patriotism is not just about remembering our heroes once a year. It is about living their values every single day.
