WhatsApp is flooded today with ‘Independence Day’ wishes and uploads across the State. What attracted me is the picture above; that almost could convince me of the true essence of Independence, the true meaning of freedom.
The woman in the picture is the President of a self help group named Dikhita MCLF (Model Cluster Level Federation) Sadiya in Assam, which is comprising of more than 4000 women members.
As we step into the 75th year of Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav, let’s take a moment to pay homage to the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters because of whom we raise our heads high in pride and joy and celebrate our achievements. The Mahotsav isbeing celebrated today as Jan-Utsav in the spirit of Jan-Bhagidari.
Of course, to be ‘independent’ suggests what previously had control over us, no longer exists. Being independent suggests free from some sense of servitude or miserable status quo.
However, does it only mean that we are able to speak and do things freely and allows us to elect the people of our choice? We are ‘independent’ to what? Does it imply to live our lives as we wish, anchor upon our desires and wishes, to be able to take decisions of our own? Or, simply if I say able to spend my money as I wish? Try to mould a future to be proud of?
Especially for a woman, true essence of ‘independence’ is probably freedom to make their own choices be it education or cloths, freedom from fear of being judged or sexually harassed, freedom to make mistakes and learn from them, and last but not the least freedom to make her own financial decisions.
As aptly quoted by some visionary, “True ‘Azadi‘ lies in the essence of ‘peace’ – being liberated from hatred, bigotry, fear, and hypocrisy”.
Today women across the globe are heading towards the invincible. And, rural women are also far no behind. Participation of women workforce in every field not only encourages other women but the nation as well. Financial inclusion is also enhancing their access to resources, access to adopt multiple livelihood income generating activities and thus gradually though reducing their vulnerability.
And as highlighted above, today if a woman from far flung rural areais able to bring together thousands of like-minded women of her locality, is able to make decisions, then definitely we are envisaging ‘leaders’ in coming times soon. And thus, there is every reason to celebrate the true essence of independence today.
