‘Rap’ on our knees

Isn’t it ironical that today we are celebrating India’s 69th Independence Day, when we don’t have the freedom to enjoy even simple things like a drink in certain states, eat  our favourite meat or brand of instant noodles, or even enjoy a bit of privacy in a hotel room. And we can’t express our opinions freely online, without the threat of arrest looming on our heads, incase a sensitive politician gets upset.

Bengaluru-based hip-hop artist Big Deal also known as Samir Rishu raps exclusively for Deccan Chronicle  to highlight our lack of freedom on a day ear-marked to celebrate it.

"Happy independence day...
But how happy are you or free?
Is it maggi you miss or beef?
Will it be coffee that’s next or tea?
Or will they ban what you hear or see?
I hate to start things on a negative note, but how do I cope when I feel like a remote?
Now you know, Maggi causes cancer like the beef that you ate.
Clubs kill culture and of course, porn leads to rape.
Item songs are great for you, alcohol keeps you in shape.
So better drink and drive and hit and run and don’t hit the brakes.
You get jail if you rich, but bail if you poor and sarcasm isn’t such a lost art anymore.
So Happy independence day...
But how happy are you or free?
They own your happiness, lock, your key.
We have to fight for our rights or be silent forever, so will it be you or me?"