Bhubaneswar, August 14: As India prepares to celebrate its 80th Independence Day, Bhubaneswar is slowly turning into a city painted in saffron, white and green. From homes and streets to markets and workplaces, the tricolour is becoming a familiar sight. But behind the flags and festive decorations are stories of people who experience Independence Day in very different ways.

For some, it is a deeply emotional reminder of the country's freedom struggle. For others, it is a day of work, business and opportunity. And for many, especially children, it is simply the excitement of waving a little flag and being part of a national celebration.

The ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign has added to the festive mood. With people being encouraged to hoist the national flag at their homes, the tricolour is finding its way into neighbourhoods across the capital.

For people whose work keeps them on the road, however, Independence Day does not necessarily mean a day off.

Taruni Munda, a bus guide says that,” the celebrations will continue even while they are working. Flags will be displayed at bus depots and on buses, while patriotic songs and the sight of children celebrating will add to the atmosphere. For them, the day may be another working day, but the sight of the national flag still brings a sense of pride”.

Prakash Kumar Biswal, a delivery worker in Bhubaneswar says, “Independence Day can be a busy day. With companies offering special discounts and customers placing more orders, the workload often increases. Yet the additional work can also mean additional earnings.”

Then there are those for whom Independence Day is a tradition carried in the heart.

Prahlad Naik of Kalpana Medical Basti has reportedly been hoisting the national flag at his home for nearly three decades. For him, patriotism is not simply about following an official campaign. It is an emotion that should come naturally from within.

“Hoisting the national flag should come from the heart,” is the sentiment reflected in his words.

Meanwhile, residents in different parts of Bhubaneswar are preparing for community celebrations, processions and flag-hoisting ceremonies. In several neighbourhoods, preparations for the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign are being carried out with enthusiasm, bringing residents together in the spirit of national unity.

When the markets turn tricolour

The Independence Day spirit is equally visible in Bhubaneswar's markets.

Small flags, balloons, wristbands, badges, caps, ribbons and other tricolour accessories are drawing customers. Children, in particular, are attracted to the colourful collection of Independence Day merchandise.

Prices vary depending on size and design. Small flags are available at affordable prices, while larger national flags cost considerably more. Tricolour-themed accessories have also become popular among youngsters.

The festive mood is not limited to flags. Tricolour sarees, jewellery, hair accessories and other fashion items are also finding buyers, especially among women looking to add a patriotic touch to their Independence Day celebrations.

Shopkeepers say the demand for national flags and other Independence Day items rises as August 15 approaches. Schools, colleges, government offices, private establishments and individual households all contribute to the seasonal rush.

For some sellers, therefore, Independence Day is not only a national celebration but also an important business opportunity.

One flag, many emotions

What makes Independence Day special is perhaps this very diversity of experiences.

For a child, it may be the joy of holding a tiny flag. For a worker, it may be a busy shift decorated with the colours of the nation. For a shopkeeper, it may mean a rush of customers. For a resident, it may be a community celebration. And for someone who has been hoisting the flag for decades, it may be a deeply personal expression of patriotism.

As Bhubaneswar gets ready for Independence Day, its streets are beginning to reflect more than just the colours of the national flag. They are reflecting different dreams, duties, emotions and memories—stitched together by one tricolour.

On August 15, the flag will rise in thousands of places across the city. But behind every flag will be a different story of what freedom—and India—means to the person standing beneath it.