India got a shout out from Google today.
Today marks India’s 65th birthday as an independent democratic nation. Here’s the scoop from wikipedia:
The Independence Day of India, celebrated on 15 August, is a holiday commemorating India’s independence from the British rule and its birth as a sovereign nation on 15 August 1947. India achieved independence following the Indian independence movement noted for largely peaceful nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience led by the Indian National Congress. The independence coincided with the partition of India wherein the British Indian Empire was divided along religious lines into two new states—Dominion of India (later Republic of India) and Dominion of Pakistan (later Islamic Republic of Pakistan); the partition was stricken with violent communal riots. The Independence Day is a national holiday in India. The flagship event takes place in Delhi where the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort, followed by a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts. The day is observed all over India with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades and cultural events. Citizens rejoice the day by displaying the national flag on their attire, household accessories, vehicles; varied activities such as kite flying, bonding with family and friends, and enjoying patriotic songs and films are seen.
Our elementary school assembly yesterday spotlighted many of India’s symbols, including the peacock, lotus flower, tiger and flag. Know India is a nice website with more information. A student led the school in singing India’s national anthem, “Jana Gana Mana,” a gentle beautiful song written by the late poet Rabindra Nath Tagore. Check out this YouTube video to hear it and read the English translation.
Lots of kite flying and bubble blowing in the ‘hood today. As for me, I’m planning to crash a single ladies pool party for lunch and then head to Zumba class!
