Independence - The word means different things to different people. One's independence might seem someone else's enslavement. Taking this thought forward and giving it a new perspective is #DilSeAzaad - a new song released by Mumbai-based Culture Machine - a digital media company, on the occasion of the 71 st Independence Day of India.
#DilSeAzaad captures the essence of 'finding true freedom by breaking free from the norms that have created rigidity in our approach towards life and from the attributes that makes us a less accepting person'. The video showcases Indians who have made a difference to their lives and the lives of others by helping and inspiring people to lead a truly independent life. "We wanted to re-define the word" and urge this 'instant gratification' generation to ascribe it to greater ideals," says Akanksha Seda, Creative and Channel Director at Culture Machine. She further adds, "We live privileged lives, taking our little daily liberties for granted while being blind to a million other realities; realities that battle for rights, not just its own, but for others. These are true struggles for liberation, as they fight for freedom from invisible shackles of thought and action, that are omnipresent and far more limiting, for they limit the only thing that truly belongs to a free person - their soul."
#DilSeAzaad's heroes are individuals who have broken free by defying norms and managed to leave an impression on the world in a small yet affecting manner. Papa Reji, the man who runs an adoption home for HIV+ children in Navi Mumbai, Gudiya, who fights for rescue and rehab of trafficked girls and boys in Varnasi, Bhumata Brigade, the street vigilantes for women's rights and safety, and other such Good Samaritans and culture activists (such as Aarifa, India's leading pole dance instructor) are part of this video that also features actor Prateik Babbar who overcame drug addiction and is inspiring others to find their independence from addictions. The video is live on Blush YouTube channel.