India is celebrating 70th independence day today! It has been 69 years since the day India was declared independent of any kind of external influence; however, the question that many people asked me these days (during the debates and discussions on independence) was – what about the internal influence? Can we ever become independent in the truest sense of the term? Can we ever realize independence? Honestly, I am not the best person, even not better than someone, to answer this question. Nevertheless, I will not shy away from speaking out what I feel. Philosophical freedom and physical freedom are two different aspects; we need to understand this basic argument first. And the question of freedom in its truest sense is thus, better untouched and unanswered! As far as talking about the freedom in earthly terms, yes, independence is there. We can talk freely; we can walk freely; we can do things freely. All these connote a simple message – we are free! At the same time, with freedom, comes discipline and certain legalities. We must take care of those things for the best of our freedom. Therefore, my message to all of you is be ‘responsibly free’! You will be an asset to yourself, your family, your society as well as your nation!
There is another important message that I wanted to share with all of you. However, this message does not come from me, rather, it comes from Nidhi Sharma, an academician and writer. She has shared her short poem with a powerful message against atrocities on women before they are born! The whole world has come on the stage now and it’s defending the rights of women worldwide. I hope this sentimental and powerful message will touch your heart:
“SHE cried in womb:
I deserve to live!
SHE could hear her father
Kill her! He said.
SHE …
A gold medallist at 20
A prodigy at 10
Died at 0”
Previous month, Ashvamegh has brought some changes in its pattern of functioning. We have created a WhatsApp platform for our readers, contributors and visitors to interact with each other and I am very happy to say that it has brought about good results. People are talking and discussing literature and its dimensions. I encourage all of you who have not joined us on WhatsApp, come, let’s use technology for the best purposes! Let’s talk literature; let’s exchange ideas; let’s share our knowledge!
A Very Happy Independence Day to Indians
A Very Happy Independence Day to Pakistanis
Keep your love always there,
Alok Mishra
