Published 22:46 IST, August 13th 2019
'Azadi Hai Kya?': Piyush Mishra explains in a poignant poem ahead of India's 73rd Independence Day, Twitter gets choked
This has been elegantly elucidated by actor and lyricist Piyush Mishra reciting a poignant poem pointing out Indians' Instagram patriotism, indifference to North Easterners, self-loathing sexual harassment while indulging in freedom
August 15 - a time when Indians overflow with patriotism, buy plastic tricolour flags, binge-watch patriotic movies, watch the Prime Minister's address and the Army parade.
But while we celebrate India's 73rd Independence Day, Indians around the country seems to have taken our Independence lightly with the various communal abuses lashed out in society.
This has been elegantly elucidated by actor and lyricist Piyush Mishra reciting a poignant poem pointing out Indians' Instagram patriotism, indifference to North Easterners, self-loathing sexual harassment while indulging in freedom.
Azadi Hai Kya? Piyush Mishra explains
The video starts with Mishra asking - What is Freedom? To the lilting tones of 'Saare Jahan Se Achha', he then explains Freedom is that which allows us to urinate freely anywhere, that which allows us to use #RealIndia on Instagram while capturing a photo with a flag-selling child but not purchasing a flag. Freedom, he says is that which allows us to outrage against rape but indulge in casual eve-teasing.
The video also explains that freedom gives us the right to make fun of 'north-eastern Indians' calling them names and abuse a hardworking police officer. He then asks have you understood what freedom is?
Then the video takes a twist advising Indians to not misuse freedom and earn India's freedom by correcting one's behaviour and attitude. It tells to be tolerant and not forget the security forces' contribution in various situations - saving the same 'Azaadi'.
Watch the video here:
The poem has opened several closed minds and eyes on Twitter:
Updated 22:58 IST, August 13th 2019