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 seemed to have settled in for Gitanjali, the wife of renowned innovator and educator, Sonam Wangchuk. In a candid admission, she revealed that for the first time, she didn’t feel motivated to watch the Republic Day parade. This sentiment is particularly striking, given her history of never missing the event.
Gitanjali’s statement, which has been making rounds on social media, is a reflection of the growing sense of discontent among many Indians who are beginning to question the true meaning and significance of the Republic Day celebrations. “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 expressed, highlighting the confusion and skepticism that has been building up over time.
This sentiment is closely tied to the current situation of her husband, Sonam Wangchuk, who has been incarcerated in Jodhpur jail since September 2025. Wangchuk, known for his innovative approaches to education and his contributions to the field of sustainable development, has been a vocal advocate for the rights of the people of Ladakh. His detention has sparked widespread outrage and concern among his supporters, who see it as an attempt to silence his voice and stifle his efforts to bring about positive change.
The Republic Day parade, which is typically a grand display of India’s military might, cultural diversity, and technological advancements, has become a symbol of national pride for many Indians. However, for Gitanjali and many others like her, the event has lost its luster in recent times. The growing sense of disillusionment can be attributed to various factors, including the perceived erosion of democratic values, the suppression of dissenting voices, and the increasing divide between the government and the people.
As Gitanjali’s statement suggests, the problem is not just about the lack of motivation to watch the parade, but also about the lack of faith in the system. When the government is seen to be suppressing voices of dissent and curtailing individual freedoms, it becomes increasingly difficult for people to feel proud of what is being showcased on Republic Day. The event, which is meant to be a celebration of India’s democratic values and its commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and liberty, begins to ring hollow.
The situation of Sonam Wangchuk is a case in point. His detention, which has been widely condemned by human rights activists and supporters, is seen as a blatant attempt to silence his voice and undermine his efforts to bring about positive change in Ladakh. The fact that he has been incarcerated for months, without any clear charges or evidence against him, has only added to the sense of outrage and frustration among his supporters.
In this context, Gitanjali’s decision not to watch the Republic Day parade takes on a deeper significance. It is not just a personal choice, but also a statement of protest against the systemic injustices that are being perpetrated against her husband and countless others like him. By choosing not to participate in the celebrations, she is, in her own way, highlighting the need for the government to rethink its priorities and recommit itself to the values of democracy, justice, and equality.
As we reflect on the significance of Republic Day and the true meaning of democracy, it is essential to acknowledge the concerns and fears of citizens like Gitanjali. Her statement serves as a reminder that the health of a democracy is not just measured by its ability to hold elections or celebrate national events, but also by its willingness to listen to dissenting voices and protect individual freedoms.
In conclusion, Gitanjali’s decision not to watch the Republic Day parade is a powerful statement that highlights the growing sense of disillusionment among many Indians. As we move forward, it is essential to address the concerns and fears of citizens like her, and to recommit ourselves to the values of democracy, justice, and equality. Only then can we truly celebrate the spirit of Republic Day and work towards building a more just and equitable society for all.
News source: https://x.com/GitanjaliAngmo/status/2015790605637747092
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