Editorial | Previous | Next
Patriotism : A Rethink
by Ramendra Kumar

January 26 is the day India was declared a Sovereign, Democratic, Republic. It is the day when the nation comes together to celebrate the spirit of democracy and freedom. R-day celebrations right from the Vijay Chowk to schools and colleges across the country make us feel enthused, energized and patriotic all over again. Political rhetoric, majestic parades, colorful tableaus, songs and dances and a spate of patriotic effusion in the mass media – all this will capture our collective imagination for a few hours or days. And then it will be back to the normal rut of life and living.

Patriotism will be on hold till August 15th ….

I feel it is time to do a rethink on the word patriotism. Is patriotism only about fighting at the borders of the country, sacrificing one’s life? Can patriotism not be reflected in little acts? Is patriotism only a value that has to be bandied on certain days and in certain ways? Can it not become a way of life for each and every one of us? This week I bring you two special stories - one will help you do a rethink on Patriotism and the other on Heroism.

I also have for you a few new contributors. San Le, an Engineer by profession and an artist and writer presents a modern fable and Kajol and Sudipta two youngsters - two delightful poems. Of course you will also get the staple BoloKids fare of animal fundas, nature notes, quiz, poems, stories and fables by our regular contributors.

So read and enjoy!   

January 15, 2006

Top