Say 'no' to plastic flags

As Independence day nears, little plastic flags make their appearance all over Bangalore. Selling them near traffic signals and petrol bunks, would be the usual sales boys who would otherwise be selling some routine accessories or newspapers.

Patriotism among Indians reaches an all-time high on the independence day (and two days before and after that on most occasions); TV Channels get filled with patriotic movies, even the theaters showcase patriotic sagas. Kids thrive to get a hand on small plastic flags that they would like to wave on Independence day.

All's fine. But once the furore has died down, the plastic flags are all over the streets, thrash bins. Scattered all over the place, they're even gobbled up by the stray cattle! (In Bangalore, cattle left astray on road is a common sight). Isn't it disgrace to have 'The Indian flag' thrown cheaply on roads and dustbins?

Add to that, the pollution and mess induced by the plastic which isn't bio-degradable unlike the 'khadi' (khadi is the traditional material used for preparing Indian flags). Patriotism aside, we should come to think of how our celebrations might effect the surroundings, as well. So, say 'no' to plastic flags this Independence day! Get a khadi flag for your kid or home if you feel like getting one. :)