Tuesday, May 19, 2015

The National Anthem

Every Indian stands up for National Anthem at least at two places in his life. Once, at school (academics/knowledge), other, at cinema hall (entertainment).
The influence of National Anthem during school days spurs such patriotism in kids that we hardly see anyone going abroad for higher studies after high school. But the absence of National Anthem in college days erodes the patriotism during those 3-5 years of college days and in search for a better future, kids leave their home and their home country for higher studies.
The influence of National Anthem is difficult to understand when shown just before a motion picture. Why spur such patriotism in a person who has come to the movies to enjoy and relax with his family/friends? Is it to help him forgive Bollywood, in case the movie turns out to be intolerable and tests his patience more than his boss/subordinates/spouse/sibling/parents do? But then even Hollywood movies' airing is preceded by the National Anthem. Why I wondered for a long time before I finally figured it out. Its simple. We're a secular country!
I still love and adore our National Anthem! It still gives me the goosebumps! But I'm not in school anymore, I have no plans for higher studies abroad and I am sure I can enjoy a movie on the big screen without feeling patriotic.