India’s Post-Independence: Poverty and Philosophical Legacy
The Inner Feelings of a Stranger: Post-Independence India
This poem paints a vivid picture of India’s impoverished population after Independence. The poet observes that the Indian subcontinent has the largest number of poor people in the world. He sees the entire East (people from oriental countries) reflected in India itself soon after its independence.
The phrase “latent diseases” refers to the dire living conditions of Indians at the time. The poet notices misery and despair due to the never-ending unemployment, poverty, inadequate wages, and degradation of the working class. The standard of living was extremely poor. The East didn’t pay much attention to its people while simultaneously accepting many Western leaders and rulers to govern and control its countries.
The poor slept on footpaths and in slums, whereas Western leaders lived luxuriously in bungalows and palaces specially built for them. The condition of the common people was pathetic. They were regarded as worse than animals, and their poor quality of life demoralized them in every aspect. They were considered worthless, while animals like cows were given respect.
The poet poignantly asks how one could remain without shedding tears upon seeing the thousands he witnessed in India. Isn’t there anyone to ease the suffering of the homeless, who live in open spaces without any roof? They couldn’t satisfy their basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
Their torn clothes and the dimness on their faces indicate the intensity of their poverty. While the standard of living for a small group of Indians has improved due to better education and globalization, the vast majority of the labor class remains trapped in poverty and misery. This demands significant attention from the government and economic policymakers. More than 75% of India’s poor reside in villages. The Indian regime has undoubtedly failed in its responsibilities towards its citizens over the last 50 years.
India’s Independence Day Celebrations
The poet begins this poem by saluting the country and its people, stating that they are peace-loving. India is the cradle of philosophy, boasting a rich and diverse philosophical tradition dating back to ancient times. India gave birth to many great philosophers.
India persevered through its struggles with great patience and determination, facing distress and misery with a smile. Ultimately, it achieved its desired goal: freedom from British rule. This was a result of the people who launched the struggle for independence throughout the nation. India gained a high and glorious position in the world.
India’s Rich Cultural Heritage
India has a great history, always famous for its culture and ancient civilization. The culture of India encompasses religions, beliefs, customs, traditions, languages, ceremonies, arts, values, and the way of life in India and its people. India’s culture is one of the oldest and most unique. There is amazing natural diversity throughout the country. The south, north, and northeast each have their own distinct cultures, and almost every state has carved out its own cultural identity. There is hardly any culture in the world as varied and unique as India’s.
India’s Global Influence
India could stand tall before the world after Independence. The West was given the light of Indian philosophy. Indian philosophers made significant contributions to world philosophy.
Mahatma Gandhi’s Role in Independence
Every year, Indians celebrate Indian Independence Day, paying tribute to our national leaders. Everyone is aware of Mahatma Gandhi’s significant role in the independence movement. Gandhi persuaded many of his followers to use non-violent protest. He started mass campaigns and fought this struggle through “Ahimsa” (total non-violence). He initiated his civil disobedience campaign by deliberately breaking the law.
Gandhi strived to unite the diverse people of India, building a common national identity and fostering nationalism to fight the British.