On the day of 25th January, my uncle and aunt visited our home and encouraged me to participate in the republic day celebrations scheduled to be held next day at the Indian Embassy. Being a proud Indian, my patriotism aroused and I urged my father that we will attend and participate.

Though a weekend, I got up early thinking, took bath and got ready quickly than usual. When I headed towards the Embassy with my father, we saw that the approach road was blocked with the cars. We could find a spot at a far away parking and wished that ample parking is arranged for such grand occasions so that many more are encouraged to come over and participate.

While approaching nearer, we noticed that wonderful celebration was arranged. Flag was hoisted at a very tall pole which could be seen from long distance. This made me proud of being an Indian.

The whole place was full of jubilant people walking with flags and chanting patriotic songs. It was heartening to see families and wish that separate section could be created for ladies and children as a many times the crowd became restless as Indian Ambassador approached.

I had good fortune to shake hands with the Ambassador and wished him happy Republic Day. Statue of father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was garlanded and the whole place was cleaned before hand.

People were very enthusiastic to celebrate this occasion and this reflects love of the Indian for their country. I experienced that people from all caste, creed, faith, religion participated and this reflects common thread of patriotism binding citizens of India and occasions like Republic day binds this thread stronger.

People were taking pictures and videos of the celebrations and posting them on the social media. This reflects positive side of social media to carry and publicize such celebrations far and wide globally.

When the performance of school children to sing the patriotic songs started, one of the embassy official acted as the anchor. About half a dozen schools participated including my school – Smart Indian School. I believe students can make great impact as these songs singed make a great impact on the hearts with patriotic feelings, thus contributing greatly in progress of our nation with enhanced integrity, brotherhood, compassion and love for our country.

The anchor further mentioned the name of the sponsors of the program which are well known Indian brand names in Kuwait. Snacks for everyone were sponsored. I felt that the sponsors were very kind to make these celebrations a success by their support. This reflects the intelligence and hard work of Indians to create such formidable brands on Kuwait.

While leaving, I noticed that after eating snacks those people had littered used plates, glasses, plastic bags making the place very dirty. Placed dustbin were not used. I appeal to everyone through this article, not to litter as this reflects very bad on your country.

I thoroughly enjoyed being part of celebration. We are taught at home and school that cleanliness inside home, school and outside is very imperative. A clean environment will ward of bacteria or germs which causes diseases also result in healthy ecosystem. As a responsible citizen I threw wastes in bin on that day. Each I practice the same and encourage others to keep our surrounding clean.

Further, I could co-relate how important is Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to keep our surroundings clean. I hope and pray that with my bit of cleanliness contribution, I would have inspired a few on that day. It’s important that this Abhiyaan is reminded to students through their respective schools periodically so that it spreads to parents, then neighbourhoods leading into societies and ultimately country as a whole. It’s a great responsibility for NRI’s as to how they project themselves and ultimately India to the world.

We were provided were various pamphlets related to travel agencies, shops, boutiques, packers and movers etc. This creates win-win situation for these service providers and users.

I would like to thank our ambassador, Indian Embassy officials, sponsors and participants and look forward in future to participate and contribute during such celebrations.