Students find their own meaning in freedom

A flag fluttering in the breeze, a familiar patriotic song and a school filled with voices can make Independence Day feel different to everyone. At Urjasvini Special School, Indore, the occasion unfolded through the thoughts and emotions of students who spoke about freedom not as a textbook idea, but as something they could feel, understand and call their own.

Alfaiz Mughal looked beyond the ceremony to the people whose sacrifices made freedom possible. For him, the day was a reminder that independence carries a responsibility to value what earlier generations fought to secure.

“Freedom is something we should never take for granted. When I think about the people who made sacrifices for our country, I feel grateful. Their courage gave us the India we live in today,” Yatharth said.

For Kavya Molasariya, the heart of the celebration was the sense of togetherness it created. He reflected on India's diversity and the way a national occasion can bring people closer despite their differences.

“India is made up of so many different people, but there are moments when we all feel like one. Independence Day is one of those moments. I feel proud when I see everyone celebrating together,” Bhavya Kashyapsaid.

Sachman Singh spoke of the emotion that came with watching her school come together. The celebration, she said, made her think about the bond people share with their country.

“When I see the flag and hear everyone singing together, I feel something very deep. It makes me think about how much our country means to us and how lucky we are to celebrate our freedom,” Sachman said.

Their reflections brought different shades of meaning to the same occasion — gratitude, unity and pride. The celebration gave the students space not only to participate, but also to articulate what the day meant to them.