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 candid admission, Gitanjali revealed that she didn’t feel motivated to watch the Republic Day parade for the first time, an event she had never missed watching in the past.
Gitanjali’s statement comes at a time when her husband, Sonam Wangchuk, has been languishing in Jodhpur jail since September 2025. Wangchuk, who is known for his pioneering work in education and his innovative approaches to learning, was taken into custody, leaving his family and supporters in a state of shock and dismay. The circumstances surrounding his detention have been shrouded in controversy, with many questioning the motives behind his arrest.
For Gitanjali, the experience of watching the Republic Day parade, an event that is meant to evoke a sense of national pride and patriotism, was tinged with sadness and skepticism. “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 sense of disillusionment that has been growing within her.
Gitanjali’s words reflect the sentiment of many Indians who are increasingly questioning the notion of national pride and the values that the country stands for. As the nation continues to grapple with issues of freedom, justice, and equality, the idea of celebrating Republic Day with grand parades and festivities seems to have lost its appeal for many.
The fact that Gitanjali, who has always been enthusiastic about watching the Republic Day parade, didn’t feel motivated to do so this time, speaks volumes about the sense of disillusionment that is spreading across the country. It’s not just about the parade; it’s about the values and principles that the country is supposed to uphold. When those values are compromised, and the very fabric of democracy is threatened, it’s natural for people to feel disconnected from the celebrations.
Sonam Wangchuk’s detention has been a rallying point for many who are concerned about the state of democracy and freedom in India. His work in education and innovation has inspired countless individuals, and his arrest has been seen as an attempt to silence a vocal critic of the system. As Gitanjali’s words suggest, the experience of watching the Republic Day parade, an event that is meant to celebrate the country’s democratic values, is now tinged with sadness and skepticism.
The question that Gitanjali poses – “What to believe and what not to?” – is a reflection of the confusion and uncertainty that many Indians are feeling today. When the institutions that are meant to uphold the law and protect the rights of citizens are seen to be compromised, it’s natural for people to question the narrative that is being presented to them.
As the nation moves forward, it’s essential to recognize the sense of disillusionment that is growing among its citizens. The celebrations and festivities that accompany Republic Day are important, but they cannot be delinked from the values and principles that the country is supposed to uphold. If the country is to truly celebrate its democratic values, it must also address the concerns and doubts that are being raised by its citizens.
In conclusion, Gitanjali’s words serve as a reminder that the idea of national pride and patriotism cannot be taken for granted. When the values and principles that the country stands for are compromised, it’s natural for people to feel disconnected from the celebrations. As the nation moves forward, it’s essential to recognize the sense of disillusionment that is growing among its citizens and to address the concerns and doubts that are being raised.
News source: https://x.com/GitanjaliAngmo/status/2015790605637747092
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