Independence Day

Independence Day, celebrated on August 15, and its commemoration on January 26, hold a special place in every Indian's heart.  

“Ba! Please wake me up early tomorrow. I must attend the NCC drill class; it’s very important,” I eagerly informed my mother. As a third-year student at Bhavnagar Science College and a proud member of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) for seven years, I was filled with excitement and hope. The next day was crucial — the selection for the Best Cadet for the Delhi Independence Day Parade was to take place.  

The following morning, our principal officer observed us keenly during drills on the college grounds. In the solemn atmosphere, we marched diligently. Some cadets were called closer for questioning. Among them were girls as talented as me, sharing the same height of 5’5”.  

The next day, seated among my peers in the college courtyard, the news arrived: “Saryu has been selected as one of the two cadets for the Delhi Parade.” I was elated, overwhelmed with pride and joy, feeling as though I were soaring above the clouds.  

In January 1965, the chosen ‘Best Cadets’ from across Gujarat gathered in Ahmedabad. We were a group of ten girls and two officers. The following day, training and camaraderie began with other cadets, including boys. We faced no complaints, even with small inconveniences like overly spicy curries and thick rotis served at the mess.  

A week later, I embarked on my first journey to Delhi. The winter chill was sharp, yet the warmth of youth made it invigorating. We reached the outskirts of the capital and were greeted by a vast expanse of tents, a temporary city in itself. Each tent housed six cots, and every cadet received two thick blankets, which we layered to shield ourselves from the biting cold.  

Midnight brought its own challenges. “Didi, I need to go to the bathroom. I’m scared to go alone. Will you come with me?” Veena, with a soft voice called. Braving the freezing night, I stepped out to accompany her, only for her to stop midway, saying, “Now that there’s light, I’ll be fine on my own.” What a relief!  

Every morning at 5 a.m., we rose, finished our routines, and began parade practice at Rajpath by 8 a.m. The gathering was an incredible sight — youth from every corner of India, united by their energy and shared purpose. Though we initially practiced marching in rows of three, the Independence Day Parade required sixteen cadets in a single line, demanding even more discipline and precision.  

That unforgettable day arrived. We marched with pride before Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and other dignitaries, hearts swelling with honour and joy.  

The next day, as a special treat, we were taken to see the Taj Mahal. The grandeur of the marble masterpiece and the serene Yamuna River left an indelible impression on my soul.  

Though time flows like the river’s gentle currents,  

memories remain, shining bright.  

With teary eyes and a heart full of pride,  

The soul sings the song of freedom for Mother India.  

• By Saryu Mehta-Parikh