National Flag Day: Every Citizen's Guide to Holding, Wearing, and Respecting the Indian National Flag

   

 

Every year on 22 July, India observes National Flag Day to commemorate the adoption of the Indian National Flag by the Constituent Assembly in 1947. While millions proudly wave the Tricolour on Independence Day and Republic Day, National Flag Day reminds us that respecting the flag is not limited to national celebrations—it is a responsibility we carry every day.

National Flag Day: Respect the Tricolour Beyond Celebrations

The Indian National Flag is more than a piece of cloth. It represents the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters, the dreams of a nation, and the unity of over a billion people. Every time the Tricolour is hoisted, it reminds us that freedom came with immense courage, determination, and sacrifice.

National Flag Day is an opportunity to renew our commitment to respecting this cherished symbol—not only during Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations, but throughout the year.

Across schools, colleges, offices, and public institutions, thousands of paper and plastic flags are distributed during patriotic events. Unfortunately, once the celebrations conclude, many of these flags are found lying on roads, playgrounds, parks, classrooms, and even in garbage bins. Such scenes are painful reminders that patriotism should continue even after the ceremonies end.

Respect for the National Flag begins with awareness.

Why the National Flag Deserves Respect

Every colour and symbol on the Indian National Flag carries deep meaning.

Saffron represents courage, sacrifice, and selflessness.

White signifies peace, truth, and honesty.

Green reflects prosperity, growth, and harmony with nature.

The Ashoka Chakra, with its twenty-four spokes, symbolizes righteousness, progress, and continuous movement.

When we honour the flag, we honour the ideals it represents.

Simple Rules Every Citizen Should Know

1. Hold the Flag Carefully

Carry the flag upright with pride.

Never allow it to touch the ground, floor, water, or be dragged behind you.

2. Do Not Throw It Away After Celebrations

Whether made of cloth or paper, the National Flag should never be discarded casually.

Collect it carefully and store it respectfully or dispose of it according to the Flag Code of India.

3. Wearing the National Flag

Showing patriotism through clothing is common, but the National Flag itself should not be used as:

costumes

handkerchiefs

napkins

cushions

tablecloths

scarves that may be dropped or stepped upon

Instead, wear clothing inspired by the Tricolour colours rather than using the actual flag as apparel.

4. Do Not Write on the Flag

The National Flag should never be used for collecting signatures, writing slogans, or drawing messages.

5. Avoid Plastic Flags

Plastic flags do not decompose easily and often end up littering roads and drains.

Choose biodegradable paper flags or reusable cloth flags instead.

6. Store It Respectfully

After the event, fold the flag neatly and keep it in a clean, safe place if it is to be used again.

7. Dispose of Damaged Flags Properly

When a flag becomes damaged or worn out, it should be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably by private burning or another respectful method consistent with the dignity of the flag.

Schools Can Lead by Example

Schools play a significant role in shaping responsible citizens.

Teachers can encourage students to:

collect every distributed flag after the programme

never leave flags in classrooms or playgrounds

take their flags home respectfully

learn the meaning behind the colours and the Ashoka Chakra

organise a "Respect the Flag" awareness activity every Independence Day and Republic Day

A two-minute discussion before the celebrations can prevent hundreds of flags from being discarded carelessly.

Parents Have an Important Responsibility

Children often imitate what adults do.

Parents can teach them to:

receive the flag respectfully

never crumple it into school bags

avoid using it as a toy

keep it safely after returning home

understand that patriotism includes responsibility

These small lessons become lifelong values.

Colleges and Public Institutions

Educational institutions, government offices, residential associations, and event organisers can make celebrations more meaningful by:

distributing only the required number of flags

preferring reusable cloth flags

placing collection boxes for paper flags after programmes

making announcements reminding participants not to discard flags

arranging respectful disposal of damaged flags

Responsible planning reduces waste while protecting the dignity of the National Flag.

Patriotism Is Seen in Our Actions

Singing the National Anthem with pride is important.

Saluting the flag is important.

Celebrating Independence Day and Republic Day is important.

But true patriotism is also reflected in how we care for the Tricolour once the celebrations are over.

A flag left on a roadside does not diminish the honour of the nation—it reminds us that our responsibility did not end when the ceremony concluded.

A Small Effort, A Lasting Respect

Imagine every child carrying the National Flag home safely.

Imagine every school collecting unused flags instead of leaving them scattered.

Imagine every citizen choosing reusable cloth flags over disposable plastic ones.

These simple actions would ensure that our symbol of freedom is never treated carelessly.

The National Flag deserves our highest respect—not only when it flies high on the mast, but also when it rests in our hands.

Let us celebrate National Flag Day with awareness, responsibility, and gratitude.

Because respecting the Tricolour is not merely a duty under the law—it is a reflection of our love for India.

Bell Metal: The Traditional Bronze That Preserves the Taste of Heritage

   

  

Bell metal is a traditional alloy of copper and tin, commonly regarded as a type of bronze. For generations, it has been used in India to make cooking vessels, serving bowls, temple utensils, and ritual items. Renowned for its strength, durability, and excellent heat retention, bell metal continues to be valued in traditional kitchens.

The making of a bell metal vessel is a skilled craft passed down through generations of artisans. Copper and tin are melted together in the right proportion to form the alloy. The molten metal is then poured into moulds or cast into rough shapes. Once cooled, the vessel is repeatedly heated and hammered by hand to achieve its final shape and thickness. This painstaking process not only strengthens the metal but also gives each vessel its distinctive finish. The surface is then polished, and the vessel is carefully inspected before it is ready for use. Every handcrafted bell metal pot reflects the patience, precision, and expertise of its maker.

One of the most cherished dishes prepared in a bell metal vessel is brinjal curry made with freshly ground aromatic masala powder. The combination is a feast in itself, needing nothing more than hot steamed rice to make a wholesome meal.

In many traditional households across Tamil Nadu, fresh brinjals are plucked straight from the backyard kitchen garden. Within minutes, they are transformed into a delicious curry in a bell metal vessel. The slow, even distribution of heat allows the spices to blend beautifully with the tender brinjals, creating a rich, earthy flavour that is difficult to recreate in modern cookware.

For many families, these vessels are more than cooking utensils. They are treasured heirlooms, passed down from one generation to the next, carrying memories of family meals, festive gatherings, and recipes that have stood the test of time. Cooking in bell metal is not merely about preparing food—it is about preserving a culinary tradition and celebrating the craftsmanship that has enriched Indian kitchens for centuries.

When Chennai Misses the Sun: A City Waiting for Bright Mornings Again

   

For a city known for its blazing summers and generous sunshine, Chennai feels a little different these days.

The sky has been wrapped in a blanket of clouds from morning till evening. Every now and then, the Sun peeps through for a few minutes, smiles at us, and disappears again—as though playing a game of hide-and-seek with the clouds.

The roads remain slightly wet from intermittent showers. The air is cool, the breeze is pleasant, and everything seems to move at a slower pace. Visitors may find this weather refreshing, but for many Chennaiites, life without the familiar sunshine feels incomplete.

After all, Chennai is a city that has learned to live with the Sun.

For years, people have planned their routines around bright mornings. Clothes are washed with the confidence that they will dry before evening. Children step out to school under clear skies. Morning walkers greet the sunrise, vendors arrange their stalls, and households begin the day with energy.

Now, the story is different.

Laundry hangs on clotheslines for hours, refusing to dry. Dampness lingers indoors. Cold and cough seem to visit one family after another. The gloomy skies make some people feel less energetic, and waking children for school on dark, cloudy mornings becomes an even bigger challenge.

Even adults feel the difference. The cheerful brightness that usually accompanies the start of the day is replaced by grey skies that make it seem as though morning has not fully arrived.

This is not to say that Chennai dislikes rain.

Rain is a blessing. It replenishes lakes, fills reservoirs, nourishes trees, and offers welcome relief after months of heat. Every drop is valuable for a city that knows the importance of water conservation.

But, like everything in nature, balance is what people hope for.

Many Chennaiites secretly wish for sunny mornings filled with warmth and light, followed by refreshing showers after sunset, when everyone has safely returned home from work and school. Such a rhythm allows the city to enjoy the best of both worlds—a productive day under clear skies and a peaceful night accompanied by the soothing sound of rain.

Perhaps that is why conversations across tea stalls, offices, apartment balconies, and bus stops often end with the same hopeful remark:

"Hope the Sun comes out tomorrow."

The clouds have had their turn. They have cooled the city, watered the trees, and given everyone a break from the relentless summer heat.

Now, Chennai waits with quiet anticipation for the return of its golden companion.

May tomorrow begin with a bright sunrise, birds greeting the morning, clothes drying happily in the courtyard, children heading to school with cheerful faces, and the city once again glowing in its familiar warmth.

And if the rain wishes to return, let it come gently after dusk—when the day's work is done, families are safely home, and the city can enjoy its comforting lullaby through the night.

Because that is the Chennai many of us know and love: bright by day, refreshed by night, and always ready to welcome both the Sun and the rain in their perfect time.

Stage Lights to Seat Side: A Lifelong Love for the Performing Arts

 

 

Stage Light or Seat Side? I Have Loved Both.

There was a time when the stage lights shone directly on me. Today, I mostly watch from the audience. Yet, my love for the performing arts has remained unchanged.

As a child of about ten, I eagerly looked forward to every opportunity to step onto the stage. If my class teacher announced that someone had to dance to a song or act in the annual day drama, my hand would be among the first to go up. I happily accepted every role and gave it my best.

The applause that followed was my greatest reward. Friends cheered, teachers encouraged me, and family members made it a point to attend the school annual day just to watch me perform. Their appreciation gave me confidence and made every rehearsal worthwhile.

Well, almost every rehearsal!

At home, after school, I would enthusiastically practise my dance steps and expressions. Looking back, I must admit that these rehearsals also became a clever excuse to postpone my homework. Practising for the stage somehow felt much more exciting than solving mathematics or writing essays.

One vacation at my grandparents' town brought another memorable opportunity.

The local performing arts association, or sabha, was staging the well-known story of Krishna and Sudama (Kuchela). Children from the neighbourhood were invited to participate. We played Sudama's children.

It was a simple role with no dialogues. In the opening scenes, dressed in torn clothes, we sat together and ate the porridge served to us, portraying the family's poverty. In the final scenes, after Lord Krishna's blessings transformed Sudama's fortunes, we returned wearing beautiful clothes and enjoying baskets of fresh fruits.

Though it was a small role, it remains one of my fondest childhood memories. My aunts, who were visiting at the time, came especially to watch the performance, making the occasion even more special.

College brought yet another chance to experience the magic of theatre. I became part of a production of The Merchant of Venice. It was wonderful to be involved in a classic Shakespearean play and to experience theatre in a different setting.

As life moved forward, my place gradually shifted.

The stage gave way to the seat.

Instead of performing, I found equal joy in being an attentive audience member. Today, whenever possible, I attend live concerts, music performances, stage plays, dance recitals, and cultural programmes. Watching talented artistes bring stories and music to life is just as fulfilling as standing under the spotlight once was.

Age may have changed my role, but it has never changed my admiration for the performing arts.

Whether under the bright stage lights or seated quietly in the audience, every performance reminds me of the excitement I once felt as a young child waiting for the curtains to open.

Perhaps that is the beauty of the arts.

Sometimes we perform.

Sometimes we applaud.

Both experiences enrich us in their own way.

The stage may belong to someone else today, but my heart still beats in rhythm with every curtain rise, every musical note, and every round of applause. After all, the love for the performing arts never fades—it simply finds a different seat.

( This blogpost is a part of BLOGCHATTER"S BLOGHOP. Details here : https://www.theblogchatter.com/blogchatter-blog-hop-a-new-way-to-write-collectively)

Why Every Book Review Blogger Needs a Review Policy

  

Why Every Book Review Blogger Needs a Review Policy

Building Trust, Transparency, and Professionalism in the Literary Community

A Book Review Begins Before the Book Arrives

A book review is often seen as the final product—the carefully written thoughts of a reader after turning the last page. Yet, long before the review is published, there is an important process that begins with a simple email requesting a review copy.

For many book bloggers, this process is informal. An email is sent, a book is received, a review is written, and everyone hopes expectations align. However, as blogging grows into a serious literary activity, relying on assumptions is no longer enough.

This is where a Book Review Policy becomes essential.

It is not merely a document. It is a professional commitment that defines the relationship between the reviewer, the author, the publisher, and, most importantly, the reader.

 

What Is a Book Review Policy?

A book review policy is a written document that clearly explains:

the types of books a reviewer accepts,

the format of reviews,

expected timelines,

where reviews will be published,

disclosure practices,

and any additional services, such as promotional posts or video reviews.

Rather than restricting communication, a review policy simplifies it.

It answers many questions before they are even asked.

 

Why Is It Necessary?

It Sets Clear Expectations

Publishers and authors know exactly what they can expect after sending a review copy.

Likewise, bloggers establish realistic commitments regarding review timelines, review length, and promotional activities.

Clarity prevents misunderstandings.

 

 It Builds Professional Credibility

A review policy demonstrates that book blogging is approached with planning and responsibility.

Just as newspapers, magazines, and literary journals follow editorial guidelines, independent book bloggers benefit from having clearly stated review standards.

Professionalism inspires confidence.

 

It Protects Editorial Independence

Readers trust reviews because they believe the opinions expressed are genuine.

A review policy reinforces that every review is written honestly and thoughtfully.

This trust is the foundation upon which every successful review blog is built.

 

It Saves Time

Many emails exchanged between reviewers and publishers involve similar questions:

How long will the review take?

Where will it be published?

Will it appear on Goodreads?

Is the review shared on social media?

A review policy answers these questions in one document, making communication quicker and more efficient.

 

It Creates Transparency

Today's readers appreciate openness.

Mentioning the source of a review copy and explaining review practices demonstrates respect for ethical reviewing.

Transparency strengthens credibility.

 

Why Publishers Appreciate Review Policies

From a publisher's perspective, a review policy provides confidence.

It tells them:

what the reviewer delivers,

where the review will appear,

how widely it will be promoted,

and when they can expect publication.

Instead of uncertainty, they receive clarity.

 

Why New Book Bloggers Should Create One

Many new bloggers believe they need years of experience before preparing a review policy.

In reality, the opposite is true.

Creating a review policy early helps establish professional habits from the beginning.

It encourages consistency, accountability, and organised reviewing.

 

A Review Policy Is Not About Rules

Some people mistake a review policy for a list of restrictions.

It is much more than that.

It is a promise.

A promise to readers that every review is sincere.

A promise to authors that their work will be treated with respect.

A promise to publishers that agreed timelines and commitments will be honoured.

Above all, it is a promise to oneself—to uphold integrity in every review written.

 

Final Thoughts

Books deserve thoughtful readers.

Authors deserve respectful reviewers.

Publishers deserve reliable collaborators.

Readers deserve reviews they can trust.

A well-crafted review policy brings all these expectations together in one place.

As book blogging continues to evolve into an influential part of the literary world, having a review policy is no longer an option—it is a mark of professionalism, transparency, and commitment.

It is a small document that carries a significant message:

Every book matters. Every review matters. And every reader deserves honesty.

"A review policy is not a contract between a blogger and a publisher. It is a commitment to every reader who trusts the review."

(You can read about my BOOKREVIEW POLICY AND DELIVERABLES here : https://bookfoodlanguage.blogspot.com/p/book-review-policy-deliverables.html)

Happy Go Funny by Khyrunnisa A. Book Review - Finding Laughter in Everyday Life

    

AUTHOR; KHYRUNNISA .A.

GENRE; NONFICTION/HUMOUR

PUBLISHER: WESTLAND

BOOK BUY LINK: @Amazon

Some books make us think, some inspire us, and a few simply make us laugh. Happy Go Funny – The Lighter Moments of Life by Khyrunnisa A. belongs to the last category, yet it achieves something much deeper. It reminds us that humour is hidden in the ordinary moments of our everyday lives—we only need to notice it.

The book is an excellent stress buster. There seems to be no aspect of the Indian middle-class household that cannot be transformed into delightful humour by the author. From morning till night, the routine activities every family experiences become a source of laughter through her remarkable storytelling. Nothing is extraordinary or fictional here; it is the familiar made unforgettable through the author's sharp observation, rich vocabulary, clever wordplay, and impeccable sense of timing.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its presentation. Divided into several short, uniformly structured pieces, it becomes easy to pick up, read a chapter or two, and return later. Each episode stands independently while contributing to the delightful experience of the whole book. It is an impressive literary work that will continue to entertain readers for as long as books are read.

Reading this book made me wonder how often we claim to love fun, yet overlook the humour surrounding us every single day. It reminded me of the famous lines often attributed to Shakespeare:

"You say you love rain, but you open your umbrella.
You say you love the sun, but you find a shadow spot.
You say you love the wind, but you close your windows.
This is why I am afraid when you say you love me."

Similarly, we all say we love laughter and fun, but why do we miss the countless opportunities to enjoy them? This book gently answers that question. It trains our eyes to observe life more closely, making it a wonderful companion for anyone interested in slow living and mindfulness.

Khyrunnisa A.'s keen observation is extraordinary. She notices even the smallest details that most of us ignore and transforms them into memorable stories. What appears casual and ordinary becomes rich with meaning and humour through her unique writing style.

The book also offers much more than comedy. At various points, the author enriches her narratives with fascinating historical facts, scientific explanations, literary references, quotations, and cultural observations. These additions never interrupt the humour; instead, they deepen the reader's appreciation of everyday life.

Ants, cats, rats, crows, rain, drains, trains—the author finds humour in everything. Her playful use of words and situations makes readers laugh aloud while recalling similar incidents from their own lives. A delightful feeling of déjà vu accompanies many chapters, complete with the imaginary background commentary of our own family members whose voices seem to echo as we read.

This is the kind of book that can be enjoyed anywhere—during a tea break, while travelling, before bedtime, or whenever one needs a cheerful pause. Many passages are so amusing that you will instinctively read them aloud to the person sitting beside you, just to share the laughter. Several chapters are worth revisiting again and again, each reading bringing fresh smiles.

Perhaps the greatest achievement of this book is that it makes readers marvel at the author's craft. How can such ordinary, everyday happenings be turned into such blissful reading? The answer lies in Khyrunnisa A.'s remarkable command of language, her engaging narrative voice, and her ability to discover extraordinary joy in the most ordinary moments.

 

Happy Go Funny – The Lighter Moments of Life is more than a collection of humorous essays. It is a celebration of everyday living. It encourages us to slow down, observe more carefully, laugh more often, and appreciate the little moments that make life meaningful.

If you are looking for a light, heartwarming read that relieves stress, sparks nostalgia, and reminds you that happiness often hides in plain sight, this book deserves a place on your bookshelf.

(Received a copy of the book from the author in return of an honest review)

Harela: The Monsoon Festival That Teaches Gratitude to Nature, Farmers, and Life

  

 

As the first showers of the monsoon revive the earth, fields awaken, rivers swell, and seeds begin their silent journey beneath the soil. Across the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, this transformation is celebrated through Harela, one of India's most meaningful harvest and environmental festivals.

More than a festival, Harela is a reminder that humanity's survival depends on the health of nature. It celebrates the intimate relationship between people, forests, rain, soil, seeds, and the farmers who nurture them all.

What Does Harela Mean?

The word Harela comes from the Hindi word "Hariyali," meaning greenery. It symbolizes new life, prosperity, fertility, and hope that arrives with the monsoon.

Celebrated mainly in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Harela marks the beginning of the agricultural season and expresses gratitude for the abundance that nature provides.

The festival usually falls during the Hindu month of Shravana (July–August), coinciding with the arrival of life-giving rains.

 

A Festival That Begins with Seeds

Several days before Harela, families sow a mixture of cereal seeds such as:

Wheat

Barley

Maize

Paddy (rice)

Mustard

Black gram

Sesame

These seeds are planted in small baskets or earthen containers inside homes.

Within nine or ten days, tender green shoots emerge. On the festival day, these fresh sprouts become sacred symbols of prosperity, health, and agricultural abundance. Elders bless younger family members by placing the green shoots behind their ears or on their heads, wishing them a healthy and fruitful life.

The ritual beautifully reminds us that every harvest begins with a tiny seed.

 

Celebrating Nature as Family

Unlike festivals that focus primarily on rituals, Harela celebrates the environment itself.

Tree plantation drives form an important part of modern Harela celebrations. Communities, schools, government departments, and environmental groups plant thousands of saplings during this season.

The message is simple:

If we nurture trees today, they will nurture generations tomorrow.

The festival teaches us that forests are not merely resources—they are living ecosystems that provide:

Clean air

Rainfall regulation

Fertile soil

Wildlife habitats

Water conservation

Climate balance

 

Thanksgiving to Nature

Harela is often described as a Thanksgiving to Nature.

It encourages us to appreciate everything we usually take for granted:

The rain that fills reservoirs

The rivers that sustain villages

The forests that protect biodiversity

The mountains that preserve water sources

The fertile soil that grows food

The seeds that promise tomorrow's harvest

The festival reminds us that nature gives continuously without asking for recognition.

Perhaps gratitude should become a daily practice rather than an annual celebration.

 

Preserving Natural Resources

The values embedded in Harela are remarkably relevant today.

The festival encourages people to protect:

Water bodies

Native trees

Agricultural land

Biodiversity

Traditional seeds

Local farming practices

Its message aligns closely with modern ideas of:

Sustainable agriculture

Ecological conservation

Climate resilience

Responsible consumption

Environmental stewardship

Centuries before sustainability became a global movement, festivals like Harela had already woven these values into everyday life.

 

Farmers: The Silent Heroes Behind Every Meal

Every plate of food carries the unseen labour of countless farmers.

Harela acknowledges this reality.

The arrival of the monsoon means renewed hope for farming communities. Timely rains determine the success of crops, livelihoods, and food security for millions.

While many of us simply purchase food from markets, farmers begin their work months earlier by preparing the land, selecting seeds, managing irrigation, protecting crops from pests, and patiently waiting for nature to cooperate.

Their profession involves uncertainty every season:

Changing weather patterns

Floods

Droughts

Market fluctuations

Rising cultivation costs

Yet they continue growing the food that nourishes the nation.

Harela reminds us that appreciating farmers should not be limited to speeches or special days. We can honour their contribution by:

Avoiding food waste.

Supporting local produce.

Respecting seasonal foods.

Understanding where our food comes from.

Encouraging young people to value agriculture.

Food security begins with farmer security.

 

Lessons Harela Teaches Every Generation

Children, especially, can learn valuable life lessons from Harela:

Every great achievement begins with a small seed.

Growth requires patience.

Nature deserves respect, not exploitation.

Trees are long-term investments.

Gratitude creates responsibility.

Conservation starts with individual action.

Prosperity depends upon healthy ecosystems.

These lessons remain relevant whether one becomes a farmer, scientist, entrepreneur, or teacher.

 

Harela and Indian Literature

Although Harela itself is primarily celebrated in Uttarakhand's folk tradition, its spirit echoes throughout Indian literature.

The poetry of Sumitranandan Pant—born in the Kumaon region where Harela is widely celebrated—beautifully reflects the Himalayan landscape, forests, seasons, and humanity's emotional bond with nature. His celebrated collection Pallav evokes freshness, greenery, and renewal, themes closely aligned with the spirit of Harela.

Likewise, folk songs sung during Harela celebrate rainfall, crops, mountains, and family blessings. These oral traditions preserve local ecological wisdom and pass it from one generation to the next.

The festival also resonates with the timeless Indian literary ideal that humans and nature are partners, not rivals—a theme found across Sanskrit literature, Bhakti poetry, and regional folk traditions.

 

Why Harela Matters Today

In an age of climate change, shrinking forests, disappearing biodiversity, and growing environmental concerns, Harela feels more relevant than ever.

Imagine if every family planted even one tree during the festival.

Imagine if every child understood how food reaches the dining table.

Imagine if gratitude towards nature became a way of life rather than an occasional celebration.

Small actions, like tiny seeds, can transform entire landscapes.

 

A Festival of Hope

Harela reminds us that every monsoon brings another opportunity—to restore, renew, and rebuild.

It celebrates not only greenery but also generosity.

It honours not only trees but also those who cultivate the land.

It blesses not only families but also future generations.

As fresh green shoots emerge from humble seeds, Harela quietly teaches one of life's greatest truths:

When we care for nature, nature always finds a way to care for us.