This was one of the most colorful and action-packed Republic Days I can remember at the Foundation. Every centre (and there are so many now!) made a presentation.

Some Highlights:

Here’s Sree, with some help from her friends, unfurling the flag.

My question: why is it called a flag “hoisting”? We hoist the flag in the US, which means ceremonially raising it slowly up the pole. But here in India, the custom is the whimsical and delightful opening of the flag whereby flower petals fall sweetly to the ground.

I like it. I like the way it never opens quite as you thought it would and someone involved in the tying of the knot always has to leap up to assist in the untying. I like the upturned faces, the slight tension of expectation and the sheer pleasure when success is achieved and the petals drift down.

Happy Republic Day!