Independence Day was nearing and preparations were soaring high in Shanthi Colony. Everyone was busy running over making arrangements for one thing or other. Even the kids engaged themselves for the decorations part. Everyone, except Raghunandhan. He was the oldest member of that Colony and had also been a devoted freedom fighter, yet he never took part in the celebration. This had been the same for all the years. Many members of the colony had approached Mr. Raghunandhan for hoisting the National Flag and to share his experiences of freedom fights but he would decline politely and over the years they had stopped asking him knowing that he would not come.
Ashok was the recent occupant in the colony and he was curious to know the reason behind this. He thought of asking Anand the next time he met him. Ashok did meet Anand that evening and asked him why Mr. Raghunandhan never participated in these celebrations. Anand recalled that day’s happenings to Ashok.
“Mr. Raghu this year at least we want you to do the honor of hoisting our National flag in our colony” It was Mr. Mehta. Raghunandan slowly replied”Mr. Mehta I was a freedom fighter. We people fought for our country’s independence, many of them struggled and lost their lives too. I wish I had been one among them and not see the country the way it is today. Look at our country, corruption, poverty and crime runs high everywhere. And who bothers about them. Everyone is busy in his life. Only when our country is free from these we will have a real Independence Day. Until that I have decided not to celebrate it”
“Oh God! What a thought Anand? Why does Mr. Raghu need to look only at the corruption side? Look at the developments we have had… MNC’s, BPO’s and stuff. Look at the pay they offer and how comfortable our lives are because of them.”
“Yeah Ashok, but you see he is too old and doesn’t think about these. Anyhow, who cares about his stupid ideologies. Come on we have got a hell lot of work to do!”
