Inspire children with the idea of india
In this special 75th Independence Day cover feature, we present suggestions to parents on simple but effective ways to educate children about India’s unique freedom movement and the democratic and secular ideals that Mahatma Gandhi and other great visionaries gifted free India, writes Ramya Sakthivel & Cynthia John Sentient educators and intellectuals are unanimous that educating children about the democratic, egalitarian and secular values incorporated into the Constitution of India is important because on its 75th Independence Day, the nation is deeply divided on religious, caste, and ideological fault lines. As the nation begins its year-long celebration from oppressive and well-disguised exploitative British rule, this is a good time for parents to educate their children about the country’s unique and unprecedented freedom movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and a pantheon of extraordinary visionaries who united 525 princedoms and principalities and conceptualised the idea of a democratic, secular India governed by rule of law and comprehensive Constitution. Despite 105 amendments it has ensured — to the surprise of most political pundits of the time — survival of India as a liberal democracy. This is especially important because Gen Z is exposed to a barrage of trivial lifestyle information and content on social media pandering to Western culture and mores. Counter propaganda at home is necessary for children to experience the pride of India’s rich culture and traditions, and comprehend the significance of the democratic, egalitarian and secular principles of the Constitution. “It’s very important that every parent educates children about our country’s hard-won freedom struggle, visionary leaders and high ideals incorporated into the Constitution. This will make them aware of the country’s heritage and diverse culture, and motivate them to discharge their duties as good citizens,” says Juhi Singh, a Bengaluru-based homemaker and mother of seven-year-old twin girls. “I show my twins patriotic movies, while reiterating that it’s the duty of every individual to work for the welfare and development of all citizens. More recently, I’ve been encouraging them to watch the Commonwealth Games to experience the joy and pride of the country’s athletes winning medals,” says Singh. In this special 75th Independence Day cover story, we present suggestions and recommendations for parents to educate their children about India’s freedom movement and the uniquely non-violent and secular ideals that Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders of the independence struggle gifted free India. Hoist the national flag Har ghar tiranga is a campaign of the Central government to advise every Indian to hoist the national flag at home from August 13-15 to mark the country’s 75th Independence Day. Citizens are also entreated to pin their location virtually on https://harghartiranga.com/ to confirm they have done so. The Amrit ka Mahotsav Instagram and Facebook pages also offer interesting tricolour filters. Sign up for this campaign and encourage children to actively participate in hoisting the tiranga/tricolour at home. Interpret the colours of the national flag for them. Saffron — Courage and sacrifice White — Truth and peace Green — Faith and strength Charkha — Welfare of…