August 15

Somewhere between the Hyper nationalist idea of a nation, and the Urban Liberal "are we really free" discourse, I find my freedom in sharing joy with whomever I want, however I want.

While using my dad's money to buy him a drink and jalebis isn't really"Independent" , I believe the choice he gave me to use the money how I want is liberating, putting in the trust that I'd use it for good, however I do it.

That's the point, till we don't find ourselves trusting of others freely, till we have inhibitions in sharing happiness freely with any one in the nation without prejudice, I think we'd live in a state of limited freedom, always susceptible to polarising rhetoric , creating divides within our own nation.

Probably a utopian idea, but the key lies in appreciating the differences.

While I am at it, I just wanted to raise awareness about the fact that social ostracization of those suffering from Hansen's Disease ( leprosy) is still a very real thing and many are forced to beg because of it.

Care foundations are inaccessible to many, for many are not even aware of them and come from marginalized communities.

I did not ask him about his story, I wanted to, but I didn't want him recalling memories that might cause him distress, while enjoying the little treat.

But I did ask him if he bought the flag, and he told it costs rs 5, which is quite a big sum to pay for him to be showing his patriotism.

He said he did sell flags as a kid back in his day, but once the disease became visible, no one would buy it from him.

Guess that was the day his freedom to use his freedom was taken away.

Happy Independence day folks, hope you'll aid people in exercising their freedoms better.