It was August 15th 2013. Delhi was geared up for
yet another special day. The weather was awesome, as in the early hours there was no sun, and no rain too..!!!
My mind was placid as we got invitation to witness the
Independence Day celebrations at the RED FORT…most commonly known as LAL QUILA. I then realized that I was blessed to be in Delhi
to experience this wonderful event of national significance.
We reached the Rajdhani’s sanctum sanatorium early. And I saw that the
security was beefed up to its full strength. The ladies queue for the security
check was longer than the men’s. I am still clueless as to how and why??? It
may be because the women are more enthusiastic to attend or is it the generosity
of the men folk to get all the ladies / girls from their house for this mega
event.
We were not permitted to carry anything except the invitation
and proof of identity. Some smart people carried newspaper to be used as covers to save their attire
from the wet chairs!!! We were seated by 6.30 AM. I was glancing at other people who
were walking in and a few nominated ushers drew my attention. Also the
Foreign Dignitaries accompanied by their elegant spouses made the event look even more special.
The school children were singing songs in all Indian
languages and I felt delighted when I heard a Malayalam and a Telugu
song (probably the Tamil song was over by the time we arrived). The commentary by a
lady was very informative, as people like me, the first time goers, who probably didn’t know
much,felt only “EXCITEMENT…EXCITEMENT…AND EXCITEMENT……!!!
The Prime Minister arrived sharply on time. He was honored
by all the Armed forces. There was absolute tranquility when our national flag was hoisted. I was
wondering in my heart that how everyone could have the same sombre feelings ..!!! National Anthem was the “icing on the cake” of this historic
moment. I got goose bumps when I was also singing the Anthem in front of the
Red Fort. There is something special in that place…which can make any Indian feel
hypnotized. I got to hear the most awaited speech by our PM. Also could see
many of our politicians and Ministers on the dais.
Overall it was an
enthralling experience in my life. I distinctly remember everything I saw in vivid detail and
the hangover of this particular visit would linger long. Or perhaps,it would remain in my heart forever and ever!!!
Jai Hind…!!!
