Recently, I came across a heart-breaking incident that deeply concerned me — a young child from a standard one class in my building is permanently paralysed because of a fight with another kid of the same class. This tragedy has stayed with me and made me reflect on what it truly means to be strong and powerful. It’s not about who shouts the loudest or who bullies others. In fact, that kind of aggression is frightening and false power.

Too often, people mistake anger and force for strength. When someone shouts at their family or bullies others simply because they think they have power, that’s not the mark of a true lion — it’s what a “Don” does. Aggressive people may seem scary, but their power is shallow and unstable. They use fear to control, not respect.

A real lion isn’t about domination or violence. A real lion is someone whose personality shines so brightly that it commands respect naturally. Their achievements are so remarkable that others feel awe, even a little intimidated, not because they’re scared of being bullied, but because the lion stands at a level few can ever reach. This kind of power comes from inner confidence, self-respect, and moral strength.

I want every child to understand that being strong means leading with wisdom, integrity, and success. It means setting an example through your actions and choices, not through fear or anger. The lion is called the king of the jungle not because it bullies others, but because it leads with dignity and courage.

Parents also play a huge role here. The behaviour of children reflects what they see at home and how they are guided. When parents teach their kids to respect others, control their anger, and solve problems peacefully, they help raise true lions — future leaders who will shine by their character and achievements, not by causing harm.

So, on this Lion Day, I urge all kids and parents to think deeply about what it really means to be powerful. Remember, the greatest strength lies in being kind, respectful, and courageous in the right way.

Let us all learn from the true lion — the king of the jungle — and strive to lead with success, moral strength, and self-respect. Not with shouting, violence or bullying.

Happy Lion Day!
Be a true lion, not a Don.

                                                                                                                                                               — written by Prachi Gupta