Responsibility at the Heart of Freedom: Knowledgeum Academy Marks Independence Day with Street Play

Bengaluru students spark civic reflection through ‘Badalāvaṇeya Bharata’

Bengaluru, August 16, 2025: Knowledgeum Academy, an authorised IB World School under the JAIN Group, celebrated India’s 79th Independence Day with a powerful message—freedom is incomplete without responsibility. The institution staged a thought-provoking street play, Badalāvaṇeya Bharata (India of Change), that urged citizens to reflect on the true meaning of independence in the modern age.

Flag Hoisting and Street Performances

The day began with a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony at Knowledgeum Academy’s Jayanagar campus. This was followed by two energetic street performances at JSS Circle and Maiyas Junction in Jayanagar’s 4th Block, where residents, commuters, and bystanders gathered to witness the unconventional Independence Day tribute.

Unlike traditional celebrations that focus on historical struggles, the play centred on the theme “Responsibility is Freedom” (ಜವಾಬ್ದಾರಿಯೇ ಸ್ವತಂತ್ರ). Through satire, humour, and poignant moments, the performers highlighted how Mother India remains bound—not by colonial chains, but by indifference, over-reliance on technology, and declining civic responsibility.

Modern Freedom, Modern Challenges

In less than ten minutes, the play conveyed the paradox of today’s times: people are constantly connected digitally, yet increasingly disconnected socially. It called on audiences to take small but meaningful steps—such as community participation and responsible citizenship—to preserve the essence of freedom.

“True freedom comes when we take responsibility for our actions. It is not just about what we gain, but about what we give back to our community and country,” said Dr Chenraj Roychand, Founder Chairman of JAIN Group and Knowledgeum.

Adding to this, Ms Aparna Prasad, Founder of Knowledgeum Academy, remarked, “Freedom is not just a legacy to be celebrated; it is a responsibility to be upheld. Our learners and educators delivered this message not from a podium, but from the streets—where it can spark immediate conversation and self-reflection.”

Public Engagement and Impact

The performances drew strong engagement from the public, with many appreciating how entertainment was seamlessly woven with social commentary. The open-air format allowed for direct interaction, making the message more relatable and personal for the audience.

By choosing street theatre, Knowledgeum Academy placed civic responsibility at the centre of the Independence Day discourse. The initiative reflected the academy’s mission to nurture socially conscious learners who view education as more than academics—an active preparation for meaningful participation in society.

Beyond Celebration: A Call to Action

Badalāvaṇeya Bharata was not just a performance but a reminder that Independence Day is both a celebration and a challenge: to honour the sacrifices of the past while embracing the duties of the present. As the applause faded, what lingered was a question for every citizen—are we truly free if we neglect our responsibilities?

🔹 Key Quotes

• Dr Chenraj Roychand, Founder Chairman, JAIN Group & Knowledgeum:
  “True freedom comes when we take responsibility for our actions. It is not just about what we gain, but about what we give back to our community and country.”

• Ms Aparna Prasad, Founder, Knowledgeum Academy:
  “Freedom is not just a legacy to be celebrated; it is a responsibility to be upheld. Our learners and educators took this message to the streets to spark real conversations.”

• Street Play Message (Badalāvaṇeya Bharata):
  “Mother India is no longer chained by colonisers, but by apathy, technology dependence, and fading civic duty.”