Today, the country celebrates the 78th anniversary of its independence from British rule with enthusiasm across India. The Bharat Express News Network hosted a grand event at its Noida headquarters to mark the occasion.
Bharat Express News Network Chairman, MD, and Editor-in-Chief Upendrra Rai began the Independence Day celebrations by lighting a lamp and paying tribute to the heroes of independence. Bharat Express Director and Group Managing Editor Radheshyam Rai, Director Sanjay Snehi, along with employees from various departments, also attended the program.
Songs Captivated the Audience
CMD Upendrra Rai’s wife, Dr. Rachna, their daughter Oorja Akshara, and their son Sadyant Kaushal also participated in the event. During the program, Sadyant Kaushal captivated the audience with his rendition of Ganesh Stuti.
Dr. Rachna performed the song “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon,” evoking strong emotions among the attendees.
Additionally, Oorja Akshara sang “Ae Mere Pyare Watan, Ae Mere Bichde Watan Tujh Pe Dil Qurban,” adding to the spirit of this celebration of freedom.
Individual Freedom
While addressing the gathering, CMD Upendrra Rai emphasized that one form of freedom was gained by liberating the country from British rule. However, another form of freedom lies in self-discovery and realizing one’s potential, ultimately establishing a unique identity in society. According to him, this represents true individual freedom.
The World Followed India
CMD Upendrra Rai noted that in today’s era, around 65 percent of the country’s population falls between the ages of 29 and 40. He remarked that India had been a leader in the field of personality development, inspiring the world to follow its path. Despite this, he observed that certain countries advanced more rapidly than India.
He further reflected, “When I search for the reason behind this, only one answer emerges: our country endured continuous invasions and remained under foreign rule for 2,000 years. As a result, fear and a mentality of subjugation became ingrained in our DNA and minds, and we are still struggling to free ourselves from this legacy.”
Definition of Friendship and Enmity
He stated, “Man is neither liberated by resources nor by knowledge imparted by others. Many individuals who pursued the path of humanity have attained unique positions. All these individuals conveyed a consistent message about the path to liberation. Becoming receptive to your own knowledge means achieving what you are meant to become.”
During the ceremony, CMD Upendrra Rai also explained that in terms of friendship and enmity, a person is their own friend and enemy. He said, “If your actions bring joy and prosperity to your loved ones, relatives, family, brothers, and society, then you are your own friend. But if they suffer because of your actions, you are both their enemy and your own.”
The Meaning of Freedom
He added, “One step can lead you to the final destination. The means and the end are not what matter because you may reach a place quickly by airplane, but simply reaching a geographic location does not mean you have truly arrived anywhere. Measuring distance is merely about moving your body from one place to another. However, reaching the true meaning involves realizing your potential and dedicating it fully to the betterment of the country and society. In my view, this is the personal, social, and spiritual meaning of freedom.”
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