India celebrated its 68th Independence Day with the usual parade,President's oration and jubilation all over the country.The continuous development of this sovereign,democratic country from a troubled nation with multifaceted problems to a global hub for economic venture is a criterion significantly important.While the world watched the celebration of Independence on television,internet,read the reviews on newspaper excluding the resident citizens of India who partially or impartially participated to establish the spirit of national integration and brotherhood.
The scenario of such spirits away from India seems a rare occasion unless you happen to be in a place attributed with the title of "mini India".Such strong comments actually evolve as I happened to celebrate Independence Day at a condominium in Singapore with a spirit more Indian than stately.This condominiun is pot of cultural mix as people from different states of India mostly reside here,apart from the indigenous natives of Singapore itself. To ignite the spirit of Indian nationalism among the children of the prevalent NRIs here,the committee of few members organized the Independence Day celebration encompassing the five elements of Nature namely Fire,Air,Space,Water and Earth.Each element formed a team comprising of 11 families( a family consisting of 3- 4 members)who actually belong to mini India and showcased their theme which were involuntarily conscious effort for a better tomorrow . No where else can a true patriotic feeling be portrayed outside our nation than in Singapore.
The elemental galore was a magnificent spectacle to watch on this celebration day as the stage was rocked with raging fire,gurgling water,astronomical space,vitalizing Air and finally the bounteous Mother Earth.
Team FIRE upheld the outrageous effects of Fire that can cause damage and accidents to one's life and environment with the scope of slight mishandling apart from being prayed in the form of "Agni" who was the God of Fire as known from ancient history.
Teams AIR and WATER were equally proficient in their reflections of these elements of nature.While a pure,cool,refreshing breeze can pour in vitality when humanity is at the behest of scorching heat of the Sun, at the same time the cascade of crystal,clear water is synonymous to life during such days.Be it any weather these are the integral elements of our nature and no wonder that the teams depicted them entirely by bringing connection with Indian Air Force and freedom fighters.The importance of water also was shown as many freedom fighters were also denied a drop to quench their thirst.
One after another team was outdoing in this competitive round until remained the last two teams to perform their best.Team SPACE was spectacular in their performances as the patriotic spirit was set in the backdrop of space,with narrative inclusion by two junior artistes and one senior citizen who was modelled as "scientist Dadi".The theme revolved round the eight planets and the freedom fighters,clearly conveying the message of togetherness and brotherhood that had long been designed by our freedom fighters.
Finally arrived mother Earth and the only planet with Life to breathe in abundance and absoluteness to every living creature notwithstanding the caveat of destruction attached with global warming.This team verbally and thematically transgressed time and space,from past to present,from the patriotism and sacrifice of our freedom fighters to the danger of global warming and urbanisation.
The presentation of each team was packed with songs,melody,rhythm,synchronisation and discipline.Each of the team carved out a niche with their outstanding performances related to the respective elements so much so that it created a theatrical splendour to mesmerize the audience as well.Truly speaking,this meaningful event brought to the fore the latent talents of the adults and children equally.
Hope this spirit continues till time infinite,the rhythm beats with songs of herioc deeds and the heart sings out with soulful melody "JAI HIND"
