Thoughtful Thursdays

• Happy Independence Day India! ॐ

So as yall may know, I am a proud Indian and yesterday was India's 66th Independence Day.  Therefore, if yall did the math correctly and came up with 1947, you are correct!  India achieved her independence from British rule and finally became a sovereign nation.

Brief history sesh::

The British East India Company gained control over internal affairs of India.  The spirit of nationalism started mid 19th century.  It became strengthened by the formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885.  The authoritative and indifferent attitude of the British towards the Indian sentiments led to a national movement gaining drive.  National leaders, like Mahatma Gandhi, fought for political and administrative rights of the people.  The British were ruthless in handling with those who fought for rights of the IndiansBy 1920s the national movement had become very aggressive. Mahatma Gandhi began several movements against the British. The Non-cooperation Movement, followed by the Civil Disobedience Movement. It was hoped that the British would leave India after the Second World War, but the British did not give in Then Mahatma Gandhi began the “Quit India Movement” in 1942. The British eventually realized that they had to leave India for good.India is a now a sovereign republic and is a force to reckon with in world politics. It is the largest democracy in the world. It has retained its secular identity despite communal flare-ups.  Eventually, the British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act, which led to the formation of India.
To read more:: http://www.bl.uk/reshelp/findhelpregion/asia/india/indianindependence/index.html

DID YOU KNOW?! Facts about India::

• India is only about 1/3 the size of USA, YET it is the SECOND most populous country in the world!!
• Many Indian wives will never say their husband's name aloud, as it is a sign of disrespect; instead, they will use "ji" or other pet names
• India is the largest democracy in the world
• The Kumbh Mela (or Grand Pitcher Festival) is a HUGE Hindu religious festival that takes place in India every 12 years.  In 2001, 60 million people attended, breaking the record for the world's BIGGEST gathering! So if your wanting to travel to India, make sure to witness this festival!

Here is my favorite version of the Indian National Anthem taken from the movie, Khabi Khushi, Khabie Gham:

Happy Birthday India! God Bless Everyone! 

Remember not to forget thy Golden Rule::

ps, much love and don't forget to =) on this joyous day!