6:00 am… my alarm rang. From the corner of my eyes, I could see my dad trying to switch it off. Seeing me trying to swing my blanket off, he said I could sleep for some more time as it was a holiday. The proposal was indeed attractive and yes, I did contemplate my dad’s advice.
But, my nutty mind of mine had other thoughts. As soon as my dad left the room, I completed my morning rituals and got ready in my school sports uniform. My mom was ready with the breakfast and I had a openfew quick bites. The initial plan was to stay at home and watch the ceremony but I decided that I would go to school and opened my house’s gate!
What? That puzzled and inquisitive expression on my dad’s face is something that I will never forget in the years to come. He started asking my mom, “why can’t this girl can stay home and watch the proceedings?” and “didn’t the circular says it was only from students from 7th grade and upwards?” I looked at my dad and said, “I can be part of the Independence Day celebrations at OISNGR as I live close by”. I chuckled and swiftly ran down the stairs!
The next 90 minutes were the best times of my life. I was about to witness the celebrations firsthand. First, we were asked to stand in lines. Second, the teachers, our principal ma’am,were, and the chief guests took their positions. Our chief guests, was not from the police, defense or administrative services. The 3 of them were from our school – last academic year’s school toppers.
Then, came the ‘pride moment’ - the loud and energetic school band did play well to lift our heads higher. The march-past by students from 7th to 10th grade did add more to the ‘pride moment’. The hoisting of the flag and saluting it, the true ‘pride moment’, gave me goosebumps. Taking the pledge and reminding ourselves of the value of the independence that our freedom fighters secured was something that I did for the first time.
We, then followed the chief guests, principal ma’am, our teachers, and other seniors to the auditorium. Neatly arranged chairs welcomed us. After everyone was seated, the show began. First, we had children sing patriotic songs. Then principal mam addressed the participants. The chief guests then shared their success stories and motivated us. Next came my favorite part the dance. My friends handled it in a very nice way. Then came the cosplayed 2nd graders came on stage. They were so cute. We then stood up to Vande Mataram.
As I walked back home, various bands further heightened my goosebumps and ‘pride moment’. I am glad to have taken the right decision and been at the school and witness the parade.
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