January 26 is always a unique moment in our national consciousness, I feel. Well, August 15 is a deeply emotional feel, related as it is to our freedom, our independence. Would you agree with me if I were to say that January 26 is a sensitive but more intellectual step towards our uniqueness as a nation because hence begins with the whole wide world our constitutional sovereign acquaintance.
No wonder, it is celebrated with much pomp and majesty. Each state has a unique float. A few ministries showcase their unique achievements. The NCC cadets' contribution is special, too. I suppose, all of us love the motorcade parades and the aeroplane formations with the glee of a happy child, right? The adrenaline rush when the pilot somersaults multiple times in the air makes our national pride real special.
In my opinion, however, the January 26 remembrance of Indianness would be truly thrilling when we remember that fifteen women participated in the actual drafting of the Constitution. Their participation in all the concerned debates was vigorous and vibrant.
They were a varied lot. Ammu Swaminathan and Dakshayani Velayudhan made the members sit up and discuss the untouchability issue even before they met Dr. Ambedkar, it is noted. Begum Aizaz Rasul and Leela Roy, the leftist politician and 'close associate of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose ' should reveal the variety of positions they hailed from.
Unique in my opinion, however, is Durgabai Deshmukh. Sure, the Marathi pride does flutter a little! Oh, yes, Aai always mentioned her as the brilliant wife of Sir Chintamanrao Deshmukh who married her, it seems, out of his admiration for her intellectual prowess.
In my opinion, however, this social reformer and freedom fighter is unique because she was the only woman in the Constituent Assembly's Panel of Chairmen. No, she did not need to be differentiated as 'chairperson' because her analytical prowess equalled any man in the panel.
That, in my opinion, is woman power at its best, in its true sense. These women, as early as 1949, have broadened the path for us to tread on. Hence this tribute to them on this special day!
Pratima@"The education and empowerment of women (throughout the world) cannot fail to result in a more caring, tolerant, just, and peaceful life for all," says Aung San Suu Kyi.
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