Republic Day: A Nation United, A Legacy to Remember

Anjumol Aby 23DTSA11 (Member of Writers' Association), Kristu Jayanti College, Autonomous

"Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who protected it." - Jai Hind.

On 26th January 2025 - India celebrated its 76th Republic Day, A day to remember the legacy. It was a day of immense significance, a celebration of the spirit of our Constitution, the rights and freedoms we are privileged to cherish as citizens of this great nation, and a promise to remember. The Republic Day celebrations at Kristu Jayanti College commenced at 8:00 a.m. on the college turf, setting the tone for a meaningful and vibrant event. The event was gracefully attended by distinguished dignitary Dr. Mary Jacob, the esteemed chief guest and assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science, coordinator of the Human Resource Development Centre, and member of IQAC at Kristu Jayanti College. Accompanied by Rev. Fr. Dr. Augustine George, the visionary Principal of Kristu Jayanti College; Rev. Fr. Dr. Lijo P. Thomas, Vice Principal; Rev. Fr. Jais V. Thomas, Financial Administrator and Director of Jayantian Extension Services; Rev. Fr. Emmanuel P.J., Director of Kristu Jayanti College of Law and Office of International and Domestic Relations; Rev. Fr. Som Zacharia, Director of Infrastructure Planning and Development; Rev. Fr. Joshy Mathew, Director of the Library and Information Centre and Human Resource Development; and Rev. Fr. Deepu Joy, Director of the Student Welfare Office; Lt. Kushbu R., Associate NCC Officer, and Mr. Arockiaraj Raj, Director of Physical Education, who are shaping the future leaders through discipline, dedication, and service. Their leadership and commitment to excellence have always been a source of inspiration. The determination and dedication of NCC cadets, volunteers from NSS, UBA, KCDC, YRC, and others added a unique spirit to the occasion, uplifting the environment. Their selfless contributions to several activities serve as a shining example of commitment and enthusiasm.

Rev. Fr. Dr. Augustine George and Dr. Mary Jacob presided over the ceremonial hoisting of the flag at the beginning of the day, paying tribute to the indomitable spirit of our beloved India. A representation of India's resiliency and power, the tricolour flapped with pride in the wind. Pride and thankfulness for India's extraordinary accomplishments pervaded the air as we stood together in honour of our journey and struggles. Fr. Dr. Augustine George, the principal, gave a statement that made people think after Chief Guest Dr. Mary Jacob gave an uplifting message. Their inspiring remarks highlighted the event, bringing home the points of unity, patriotism, and the collective duty to create a better future for our country.

The Constitution of India, ratified seventy-six years ago, is the beating heart of our democratic nation and a symbol of liberty, equality, and optimism for all its citizens. A commitment to empower, uplift, and unite was more than a document. India has grown since then, becoming a major player on the international stage. Continually becoming its best counterpart. Everything we have accomplished so far, from empowering communities at the grassroots level to launching satellites touching the stars, has been remarkable. However, Republic Day is not just a time to rejoice in accomplishments but also an opportunity to reflect on the past year. We should reflect on whether or not our actions reflect the values enshrined in our Constitution today. Have we fostered the brotherhood, equality, and freedom it guarantees? Is it our goal to create a society in India where people of all genders, races, and creeds can realize their full potential? Does every Indian lead a life brimming with pride? We should enquire about these things. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar famously said, "We are Indians, firstly and lastly." Let us not forget his words. Republic Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom, the rights we have today, and the ideals that contemporary India is based on.

We owe it to them to continue this legacy with courage and determination. As the tricolour soars high, it calls upon us to rise above divisions, to stand united as one people, and to work relentlessly toward a future that mirrors the greatness of our past. As the celebrations in our college concluded, everyone renewed their pledge to uphold the ideals of our Constitution and work together toward a future filled with hope, progress, unity, and integrity. Let us celebrate the India that dreams big, dares to innovate, and stands tall amidst all the challenges. Let us be the change-makers, the torchbearers, and the builders of an inclusive, sustainable, developed, and empowered India. May this day serve as a reminder of our shared vision and the power of unity and integrity. Together, we can shape a brighter future for a brighter tomorrow.