Independence Day is the day of freedom,
The freedom that came to Indians on 15th August 1947,
Celebrated ever since every year without fail,
Politicians making speeches and hoisting the tricolour.
Innocent children singing patriotic songs,
March in formations neat and disciplined,
The army and police display their resolve
To defend the Borders and maintain the peace.
The media debate the achievements and failures
Of the Government and the Institutions,
And suggest a remedy for every problem
Like Terrorism, corruption nuclear deal et all.
Saints and clerics dabble in politics
Setting man against man in the name of God.
Old traditions and customs, superstitions and prejudices
Are all in the way of peace and progress.
While the leaders are speaking of peace and harmony
Their followers are stocking guns and bombs
Dividing the people by caste and creed
Building walls and fences separating the lot.
A former minister laughs at corruption plaguing the polity
And declares that no one can do anything about it!
The judges in the Supreme Court cries out in shame
That even God cannot help our beloved country!!
Come election time and the largesse is spread thick and juicy
For the Babus and the file pushers
And on second thoughts for those defending our borders too
But the poor and needy turn cynics and bear the brunt!
In spite of the parasites and thugs that rule the country
A ray of hope shone through the clouds
Bringing joy to every Indian
As Abhinav Bindra brought us a gold.
