Aayu's Independence Day

Over the past two days, the children at Aayu's school had been getting ready for the grand celebration to be held on Independence Day. They were taught to salute the national flag with discipline and respect and sing the national anthem rhythmically and within the time limit.

- Vijay G Khatri

All the teachers also guided the children to participate in the parade and the display of tableaus depicting the history of independence. They ensured that the movements of the children participating in the parade were synchronized.

However, 10-year old Aayu was feeling sad because he also wanted to take part in the Independence Day parade, but his attention kept turning to his legs. He often felt disheartened by his physical limitations.

In his childhood, a disease weakened Aayu's legs, leaving him wheelchair-bound. Even if he wanted to, he couldn't participate in all these activities. He found solace in moving his hands up and down in the parade, while saying "one-two.. one-two..."

After the parade and tableau display practice, Kishore Sir, one of the teachers, was showing a short movie about the country's revolutionaries in the classroom.

Kishore Sir noticed Aayu and asked, "Why does Aayu look sad today?"

Aayu shared what was on his mind. All the children's attention turned towards Aayu.

Smiling, Kishore said, "Aayu, how did you think that you cannot be a patriot and serve the country? You can contribute to the country with your knowledge and skills."

Kishore addressed the class.