Proud to be an Indian

The title of the post could be misleading for you. "Are you proud to be an Indian? Why so?", I was reminded of this question while watching the flag hoisting ceremony today at my college, the question, which was raised by a course facilitator in one of our sessions. I wondered how I would answer that.

I can't say no, that would sound too cynical, pessimistic, rebellious, or something of that sort. But if I say yes, I should have a reason for that. Not just to tell others, but for myself to believe.

Then i figured out a very easy explanation for the same. I love my country the same way I love my parents, my family. I didn't do anything to get them. I was born to them. Had God wished otherwise, I could have been born to anyone, anywhere possible. But I am sure, I would have loved my those parents the same way. That's how I love my country. I like many things about it, I hate to see many bad things in it. But those don't decide whether I love it or not.

I just feel for my country, because it is mine. I grew up with it. I have always sung those songs with enthu. Taken part in parades. Read the pre-independence stories in school books . Then as I grew up, saw it develop to what it is now. You can add more such lines here that could fit. The list is endless. Bottomline is that I don't need a reason to be proud of my country, or to love my country. I just do it. Maybe that is irrational, but who said I have to be rational in my love!