While most celebrate Independence Day with flag hoisting and festivities, a 77-year-old retired IIT Delhi professor chose a different path, one rooted in empathy and resistance. Prof. Tripathi, a Gandhian at heart, will observe a day-long fast on August 15 in solidarity with the starving people of Gaza.
The act was brought to public attention by his daughter, Rakhi Tripathi, who shared a moving video titled, "Prof Tripathi (77 years) will fast on 15th Aug for innocent people of Gaza to feel their pain and hunger. This will strengthen our soul.” Her caption read: “Stop Mass Starvation in Gaza. 💔”
Check out the post below:
In her post, Rakhi explained, “This Independence Day, my father… will observe a day-long fast for the innocent people of Gaza — victims of mass starvation and brutal blockade.”
Prof. Tripathi also appealed to others: “If your conscience allows, keep a fast too. Let Gaza know they are not alone. Let India’s silence become a whisper of solidarity.”
The post carried his deeper philosophy: “This is not charity. This is shramdan of the soul. Fasting is not weakness — it is the strength of a heart that refuses to go numb. A spiritual act of resistance.”
Netizens pour in respect
Social media was quick to hail his stand. One user commented, “This man is alone powerful than all leaders in India 🇮🇳 A man with spine. You are a national treasure." Another wrote, "I will observe fast with him in my city Inshallah."
Messages of admiration poured in: "Love and respect! May Allah showers you with all the blessings… This world needs more like you."
One comment particularly struck a chord: "He may not be a Muslim, yet he stood for justice louder than many who claim to be… truth knows no religion & courage needs no label… Huge respect..."
Another simply called him, "The true Indian...", a fitting tribute to a man whose quiet act of fasting spoke louder than any speech.
