Being an Indian

               
             
 Being an Indian for me, is being engaged in a camaraderie filled with heightened dreams, and the wish to grow past margins and dubious expectations. Being an Indian is knowing how to strive, better yet - thrive, in the midst of adversity.Being an Indian is abiding by one simple philosophy : "juggad first yaar, baaki baad me dekhengey". Being an Indian means pride, means defensive, means all encompassing. Being an Indian is devouring a mango whole, and even sweeter, knowing the blessings of my grandparents' hugs. Being an Indian is strolling in Dehradun, and bowing to the Ganga in Rishikesh. Being an Indian is being familiar with the scent of melting butter on my mami's morning paranthas and the fragrance of chameli on slumbering, evening streets. Being an Indian is being smitten. Being an Indian is exhilarating. Being an Indian is a privilege, a blessing, and no doubt, a responsibility. But most importantly, being an Indian is something that never really escapes you.
Happy Independence Day, India - "the ancient, the eternal, and the ever-new".

By my darling daughter Tanya Tewari