Happy Republic Day

Republic day and Independence are the two days that would curb us of our freedom and independence during our school days, at least from a month in advance, preparing and rehearsing for the parade. The resting afternoons were spent in the strenuous physical activity in the hot sun of Amaravathi, rehearsing the march, salutes, shouting commands, punishments, sometimes carrying a rifle over the head. The dreamy nights were spent in ironing the uniform, polishing and shinning the shoes, belt buckles, shoulder badges, beret emblem, so that the officer would be able see his face on our shoes or the metal badges ab buckles. All this was always accompanied with a joy of being able to play pranks at the officers who wouldn’t know Tamil, being part of a house and the house-spirit that made the cadets of each house excel to prove they are worth the Cock (a trophy).

All these, coupled by the pride of being an Amaravian and an Indian gives me a reason to cherish and celebrate this day, that too when a greatness like Abdul Kalam is the President. Happy Republic Day!