Fourth of July free spirits

Clearly, there’s a whiff of celebration in the air. On the 241st American Independence Day, we talk to Bengalureans residing in the United States of America to share with us the scenes of impending jubilation on American shores, and their fondest memories of the historic day — the fourth of July.

“Coming from the largest democracy in the world, and looking at how the oldest democracy in the world celebrates its independence is definitely a whole new experience. The passion and patriotism for the nation is at its peak.

People take time off, and travel during the long weekend and ensure kids of the next generation are aware of the grand heritage that the country possesses. I will be visiting the Niagara Falls today to witness the fireworks and revive the Red, White and Blue with my fellow American friends,” shares Siddarth Lakshmanan, 24, a graduate student at Rochester Institute of Technology, who used to live in the city.

Enthusing how the difference in celebrations comes as a breath of fresh air, he adds, “In India, we await the Prime Minister’s speech at the Red Fort, followed by celebrations at schools. Whereas in the US, fourth of July is an event by itself. Festivities at this time of the summer are at their peak. Be it concerts, sales, summer activities or even travelling. Some of the downtown streets are blocked off for traffic, so that the firework display can be witnessed. There’s an unbridled wave of freedom and you can’t help but like it.”

Opining  similar views, Chaitra Chandrasekhar, a student, says, “Most Americans understand the importance of travelling. And as far my observation goes, since its summer time and kids have offs, families mostly go on vacation. Local families go to places with lesser crowds. So, its actually quite customary to see people check-in at serene locales during the Independence day here.”

Being a true-blue-Bengalurean at heart, home is where the heart is, for model Jigar Shah. But again, the fact is that US has always been a cozy abode. “I feel thankful to have been able to call America home for a couple of years and love the excitement around this time of year. It’s a true celebration of the land of the free. Stars and stripes everywhere, red, white and blue in the skies, cook outs and BBQs are all around. I remember going to watch the fireworks at Disney World on the 4th of July, and being awestruck by this display. It was a reflection on all the freedom America has to offer,” reminisces Jigar, who has been living in Orlando, Florida for the past three years, but continues to shuttle to India frequently.

For Charisma Shivaratri, a Bengaluru girl who is now a resident of San Francisco,  it is all about indulging in the simple pleasures of life with those who matter the most. “Fourth of July is a very exciting day for all of us. I have extended my weekend and am already on a vacation with my family. This is a good opportunity for all of us to take time out from our busy schedule to spend some quality time together. Moreover, who doesn’t enjoy a relaxing vacation, where you are lounging in the hotel’s private pool on a flamingo float while gazing at the breathtaking mountains of Palm Springs,” she says.