Didn’t feel like watching R-Day parade for 1st time: Wangchuk’s wife
As the nation celebrated its 74th Republic Day with grandeur and pomp, a sense of disillusionment and disappointment seemed to have settled in the heart of Gitanjali, the wife of Sonam Wangchuk, a renowned education reformer and innovator. In a heartfelt and introspective statement, Gitanjali expressed her lack of enthusiasm and motivation to watch the Republic Day parade, a tradition she had diligently followed for years. This sentiment, coming from someone who has been an ardent supporter of the country’s progress and development, is a telling sign of the times we live in.
Gitanjali, who has been a constant source of support and strength for her husband, Sonam Wangchuk, throughout his endeavors, confessed that she didn’t feel the same sense of pride and excitement that she usually experienced while watching the Republic Day parade. Her words, laced with a sense of sadness and disillusionment, echoed the feelings of many citizens who are increasingly questioning the direction in which the country is headed. “It’s sad, but I don’t know how much to feel proud of what’s showcased anymore! What to believe and what not to!” she exclaimed, highlighting the growing sense of skepticism and mistrust that has been creeping into the minds of the people.
This statement, coming from someone as devoted to the nation’s progress as Gitanjali, is a stark reminder of the erosion of faith in the system. The fact that she, who has never missed watching the Republic Day parade, felt unmotivated to do so this time, speaks volumes about the prevailing sentiment of disillusionment and disappointment. The grandeur and pomp of the parade, which is meant to evoke a sense of national pride and unity, seemed to have lost its appeal for her, and perhaps for many others like her.
The context of Gitanjali’s statement is equally significant. Her husband, Sonam Wangchuk, has been languishing in Jodhpur jail since September 2025, a fact that has left many questioning the fairness and justice of the system. Wangchuk, who has been a vocal advocate for the rights of the people of Ladakh and has worked tirelessly to promote education and innovation in the region, has been detained without any clear charges or evidence. This has led to widespread outrage and protests, with many seeing his detention as a clear case of harassment and intimidation.
In this backdrop, Gitanjali’s statement takes on a deeper significance. Her lack of enthusiasm for the Republic Day parade is not just a personal sentiment, but a reflection of the growing sense of disillusionment and frustration that is gripping the nation. The fact that someone like Wangchuk, who has dedicated his life to the service of the nation, can be detained without any clear reason or justification, has shaken the faith of many in the system. The parade, which is meant to celebrate the nation’s progress and achievements, seems hollow and meaningless when contrasted with the harsh reality of Wangchuk’s detention.
As the nation moves forward, it is essential to recognize and address the growing sense of disillusionment and disappointment that is creeping into the hearts of its citizens. The erosion of faith in the system, the lack of transparency and accountability, and the blatant disregard for human rights and dignity, are all issues that need to be urgently addressed. The Republic Day parade, with all its grandeur and pomp, is a reminder of the nation’s potential and promise, but it is also a stark reminder of the gap between the rhetoric and the reality.
In conclusion, Gitanjali’s statement is a wake-up call for the nation to introspect and reflect on its values and principles. The fact that someone like her, who has always been a proud and enthusiastic supporter of the nation’s progress, feels disillusioned and disappointed, is a sign of the times we live in. As we move forward, it is essential to recognize and address the growing sense of disillusionment and frustration, and to work towards creating a more just, equitable, and transparent society. Only then can we truly celebrate the spirit of the Republic Day parade, and feel proud of what we have achieved as a nation.
News Source: https://x.com/GitanjaliAngmo/status/2015790605637747092