Housing society residents of Pune sing of patriotism, freedom for I-Day celebrations
Many housing societies organise special I-Day programmes to hoist the Tricolour and celebrate the day with patriotic songs, skits and other events.
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This year is no different, yet the enthusiasm feels newly charged. WhatsApp groups are filled with rehearsal clips, neighbours swapping lyrics and karaoke tracks, and participants of all ages adding their own twists to old favourites. An acoustic Saare Jahan Se Achha, a Hindustani style Jai Ho, and an a cappella Desh Rangeela are all part of the mix.
"In uniform or out of it, the feeling never changes," said Pradeep Kulkarni, a retired soldier and resident of Kothrud.
Every Independence Day, as the Tricolour is hoisted andthe air stills in reverence, Kulkarni and his wife step forward to lead the national anthem in a soul-stirring duet.
"The moment the first note leaves my lips, it feels like the whole country is singing with me. Our national anthem is a salute to the land we call our home and a prayer for every soul that lives in it. When I sing it, I remember the faces of those who served and the sacrifices that built our country, and my heart overflows with great pride that comes from just being part of this great nation.
In that moment, every voice around me feels like one heartbeat for India," said Kulkarni.
At a housing society in Undri, the tradition belongs to the children. Society manager Richa Sharma said the youngest residents put together a medley of patriotic songs each year. "We set up speakers for the children to sing. It is wonderful to hear them sing songs that inspire patriotism. It gives the right vibes and makes the morning feel truly special.
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This year, the singing group ranges from 3- to 15-year-olds," Sharma said.
In another society in Baner, the music starts at 8am. Residents gather in the courtyard and sing patriotic songs to their heart's content. "Senior citizens take the lead in the later part of the morning. Among them is 87-year-old Charulata Joshi, who sings Ae Mere Watan every year. Her voice sometimes quivers, yet the song always draws applause and stirs emotion.
Her voice carries the echoes of the country's struggles and triumphs with every note," said Abhiraj Patil, a resident of the society.
Some housing societies have organised online singing contests. "We invited entries of videos on our society's WhatsApp group for the Independence Day singing competition. We received a great response, with grandparents singing with their grandchildren, parents singing together, and solo performances. We will be giving prizes to the winners during our Independence Day programme," said Payal Shah, a resident of NIBM Road.
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