This Independence Day will mark a historic and deeply emotional moment for 14 remote tribal villages in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region. For decades, places like Gunjepurti, Pujarikanker, and Bhimaram lived under the shadow of fear, where the Indian Tricolour was forbidden, and only red or black flags fluttered under Maoist dominance.
Now, after years of struggle and sacrifice, the heartbeat of Bastar is ready to beat in the colours of our nation. Since the establishment of new security camps in January 2025, these villages have found the courage to reclaim their freedom.
For the first time in living memory, children will watch the saffron, white, and green rise proudly against the blue sky. Elders, who once whispered patriotic songs in fear, will sing them aloud. Bastar is not just celebrating Independence Day it is celebrating its rebirth into the embrace of India.