Independence!
This single word resonates like droplets of rain falling with renewed hope and a fresh will for a better life. However, 79 years ago, India’s independence, like every life-altering event, came as the result of a thunderstorm – a storm marked by unimaginable bloodshed, silenced voices, stripped rights, and relentless struggles for what rightfully belonged to us.
But soon emerged the dawn of a new beginning – a new hope guided by our fearless freedom fighters, who became rays of sunshine breaking through the darkest clouds, fighting with unmatched courage and desperation to reclaim their Bharat.
Though the intensity of that era can never be recreated, the students of CP Gurukul, Kota did their utmost to honor it on 15th August 2025 – the 79th Independence Day. It was a tribute to all those freedom fighters, anti-colonialists, and every Bhartiya who helped unite this great nation.
The hosts for this auspicious occasion, Apoorva and Adhyant, brought a vibrant energy to the event through their dynamic anchoring. The day began with the National Anthem, where the enthusiasm in every voice seemed louder and prouder than ever before. This was followed by the iconic flag hoisting by our Principal, Mrs. Shital Saraf, symbolizing the spirit of a free India.
Next was the synchronized march past, featuring all council members whose coordination and discipline reflected their deep respect for the nation and their school. Their weeks of practice shone through, making it a proud moment for all.
With the formal proceedings complete, students were invited to sit back and enjoy the rest of the ceremony. The musical band performance marked the beginning of the cultural showcase. Their rendition of the song ‘लक्ष्य न ओझल हो जाये’ (Let the goal not fade) reignited the spirit of a time when every Indian stood firm on their single mission – to reclaim Bharat.
A stirring speech by our Chemistry faculty, Mr. Gaurav Vijayvargiya, followed, leaving everyone with a bright flame of patriotism glowing in their hearts.
Poetry has always been timeless, but it becomes even more powerful when rooted in patriotism. Vaishnavi delivered her fierce self-composed Hindi poem, ‘आज़ादी की कीमत’ (The Price of Freedom), reminding us that independence was no game – it required knights, warriors, and strategy. Her poem captured this truth in the most compelling way.
The poetic brilliance continued with Ojasi’s English composition, ‘To Be One with the Soil of the Nation’, a heartfelt piece that shed light on the continuing struggles India faces even in 2025, as lingering consequences of a brutal colonial past.
Then came the highlight of the event – a soul-stirring oration by Tanaya Sri, titled “The Unsung Flames of Freedom.” In just a few minutes, she transported us back in time, paying homage to forgotten heroes like Velu Nachiyar, Veer Savarkar, and Matangini Hazra – brave warriors whose sacrifices are often left out of mainstream history.
What followed was a soulful performance by our beloved Biology faculty, Chaitali Ma’am, whose rendition of ‘Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon’ left no heart untouched, evoking both pride and reverence.
The atmosphere reached a new high as the Dance Club took the stage. Just like India, CP Gurukul thrives on diversity. The performance beautifully celebrated unity in diversity, featuring Bengali, Marathi, Punjabi, and Gujarati dance forms. It was a powerful reminder that freedom was only possible because people from all backgrounds stood together as one.
Before closing, the school held the prize distribution ceremony, recognizing students in four categories – Star Student, Well-Groomed, Disciplined, and Punctual. This recognition inspired not only the awardees but every student present to strive for excellence in their journey.
The event concluded with a heartfelt closing speech by Principal Mrs. Shital Saraf, who reminded us that independence is not just a historic milestone, but a living responsibility. It’s something we must honor every day through our actions, values, and unity.
As the day wrapped up, one thought echoed in every heart:
“Azadi is not just in the skies above or in the tricolour we salute – it lives in the soul of every Bhartiya who dares to dream, to serve, and to unite.”
By Devishi Gupta (10th A)
