As celebrations for Independence Day sweep across the nation, veteran actor Jackie Shroff offers a thought-provoking take on what true freedom means. His message cuts deeper than the festive cheer. He shared his heartfelt views in a conversation with Amar Ujala.
“Freedom isn’t just about putting up flags or having a party,” Shroff stated. “It’s the story of millions of brave soldiers. They risk their lives protecting our borders every single day.”
Beyond the Flag: The Soldier’s Heartbeat
When we proudly hoist the tricolor at our homes, we might not always grasp the immense cost of our freedom. For many, this flag is more than just fabric. It’s a powerful symbol. It represents respect. It is vital to understand the sacrifices woven into its very threads. The soldier standing at the border is more than just a person in uniform. They are the greatest strength safeguarding our freedom. They guard our country, not caring for their own lives. This allows us to sleep soundly in our beds. Every breath they take is priceless to us.
The Real Meaning of Patriotism
Shroff highlights that while we enjoy peaceful sleep, soldiers are constantly putting their lives on the line. He believes we must always carry the awareness of their sacrifice in our hearts. This, he says, is true patriotism. It means remembering their sacrifices and feeling deep pride for them.
For Jackie, being a soldier isn’t just a career. It’s a mission, a huge responsibility. He notes that a soldier at the border lives far from family. They leave their own dreams behind. Still, they stand strong for their country. Their courage teaches us a crucial lesson: a true patriot serves their country above their own interests.
The border isn’t just a line drawn on a map. It’s a powerful feeling. It’s a promise that every person stands ready for their country. The blood shed at the border isn’t just red ink. It’s the vibrant color of patriotism. Because of that sacrifice, we are free. Because of that sacrifice, our tricolor continues to fly high.
True Freedom: Standing on Your Own Two Feet
When defining freedom, Shroff stresses the importance of not relying on anyone else. He points out that this freedom isn’t only about what we see on the outside. It’s not just breathing fresh air or moving around easily. Real freedom, he argues, comes from trusting your own skills. It comes from your inner strength, your discipline, and your personal code of conduct. You are truly free only when you can stand firmly on your own two feet.
Shroff also says patriotism isn’t just about shouting slogans or celebrating loudly. He admits that whenever he thinks about a soldier shedding blood at the border so he can sleep peacefully, his own sleep is disturbed. That soldier’s sacrifice is our greatest treasure. We must honor it. We should strive to become better people in their memory.
An Enduring Soul: India’s Timeless Identity
When asked how he has seen his country change over his lifetime, Shroff insists that India has always remained India. Our culture, our languages, and our traditions are our true identity. Ancient practices like Yoga and Ayurveda, and texts like the Rigveda and Atharvaveda, connect us. They continue to spread their wisdom across the globe. Shroff believes the changes have occurred in the outside world, which improves itself by observing India. It fills him with pride that India’s core spirit has never wavered. Instead, the world has learned from its rich culture.
For Jackie Shroff, freedom is not merely about governance or politics. He clarifies that breathing under an open sky is only one part of the picture. Real freedom, he believes, springs from our inner strength. It’s what makes us fearless. Freedom is more than a word. It’s a way of living. It’s deeply connected to self-reliance, discipline, and self-respect. This philosophy teaches us to take responsibility for our own choices.
A Simple Message for the Next Generation
Jackie Shroff shared some simple, yet powerful, advice for young people. He urged them to serve their parents, as their blessings build strength. He also stressed the importance of respecting soldiers and farmers. They protect us. They provide us with food. Without them, he states, we are nothing. Shroff concludes by saying that if the youth remember these two crucial things, they will grow into good citizens.