Guru Shyama Khyapa:
Independence did happen, but it happened away from the public eye, at midnight. Independence was taken like thieves take things—yes, I call them thieves. The general public did not even realize they had become independent; they were fast asleep. They never truly knew when India became free. Because of this lack of awareness, even today, no one truly feels that India is independent.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
The souls of the brave martyrs who sacrificed themselves are not at peace. Their souls and the Supreme Soul are not at rest. They did not get what they truly wanted. Who remembers the great men who gave their lives—Kanailal, Prafulla Chaki, Khudiram Bose, Master Da, Bagha Jatin? Even Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was branded a traitor. These leaders never wanted this kind of independence for India.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
I do not see any signs of real independence. Are we really free? We are still living under a reign of subjection. Our voices are throttled. We aren't allowed to write; we aren't allowed to speak freely. If you write or say something, the police show up at your house. What is the value of this kind of independence? It has no value to me.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
If we want to taste true independence today, the document—the Constitution—must be changed. Many things need to be overhauled. Otherwise, real independence will not come to India. It was better under subjection. The British ruled us, and now these people are ruling us. There is no change. The same people continue to enjoy the benefits of this "independence."
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
What is needed is a social awakening. We must awaken our conscience. How can a society without consciousness or conscience grow? A saffron-clad, pocket-less saint will come to rule India and establish Hindutva. He will come to deliver the saints and punish the wicked. This cannot be a lie. Someone will come. I can already hear the footsteps. We are waiting.