ABSTRACT
For all Indians the arrival of independence on the midnight of 14-15 August 1947 was an exhilarating moment that remained forever ingrained in their memories. But that moment also arrived with the pain of Partition, as well as enormous challenges of an uncertain future. Some felt inspired and empowered,1 others felt daunted and anxious, as the afterglow of celebrations faded away, and the stark realities of freedom began to stare at their faces. But let us begin with the celebrations.
