August 15 is India’s Independence Day and a special day for Indians around the world. In India, the days leading up to Independence Day buildings are illuminated with strings of lights and the ‘tiranga’ (tricolor) flutters from homes and other buildings. The president delivers the ‘”Address to the Nation” on the eve of Independence Day. The day of, India’s prime minister hoists India’s flag and holds a speech at the Red Fort in Old Dehli. Flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs are held throughout and often involve many schools and organizations. Many people spend the day with family members or close friends.
For me, being Indian goes beyond a birthplace. It’s the fragrance of morning dhoop, the aroma of hot masala chai, the whistling sound of a pressure cooker, the vibrant colors in our masalas dabba, the afternoon snoozes following Sunday lunch, the need to celebrate even the smallest of holidays in the grandest of ways. Being Indian is a feeling, a taste, a way of life. I may not have been born in India but I still get goosebumps while watching a patriotic movie and get a lump in my throat while listening to patriotic songs.
Of course I’d love to pass on this love to my child so that she can celebrate her roots in her own special way. For that reason, I’m sharing 5 Ways to Teach Children About India.
BOOKS
Growing up there weren’t many books on India for our generation, Bharat Babies has changed that for the new generation. With books like Indi-Alphabet they introduce readers to different parts of India. Little Mirchi is always captivated with this book when we take it out to read, she asks questions about the different cities and is drawn towards the vibrant illustrations. From my father in law to my brother, everyone that’s picked it up has been impressed with the quality and accuracy behind this whimsical read. Bharat Babies is offering 15% off Indi-Alphabet right now if you use code INDEPENDENCE15 at checkout.
SHOWS & MOVIES
Netflix and Amazon Prime have some wonderful documentaries on India. Some of our favorites include: Raja Rasoi aur Anya Kahaniyan, Itihaas ki Thaali se, The Story of India.
FOOD
What a wonderful way to teach children about the various regions of India through food and flavor! Talk about masalas, grains and agriculture or foods made during festivals.
TRAVEL
For me there is no better teacher than traveling. While it can be difficult to hop around India while on a time restricted trip, trying to visit a different city every time you visit would be a wonderful way to expose kids to the vast parts of India. See all the fun we had when we visited Bijapur on our last India trip.
FLY A KITE
The sport of kite flying symbolizes Independence Day. In India, the skies are dotted with countless kites flown from rooftops and fields to symbolize India’s free spirit of India. Make a kite with the colors of India and enjoy this activity as a family. For parents this is sure to bring back some childhood memories.
How are you celebrating India’s Independence Day?
