New Delhi: Bollywood has consistently played a significant role in evoking a sense of patriotism among its audience through its films, songs, and dialogues. Hindi cinema is highly regarded for stories deeply rooted in nationalist themes, often portraying sacrifice and valour in the most stirring and heartfelt manner.
Bollywood has been instrumental in bringing forth several classic patriotic films. These movies contain iconic dialogues that not only resonate with audiences but also travel across generations, becoming a part of India’s cultural heritage. These lines celebrate the indomitable spirit of the nation and invoke a sense of pride and patriotism.
As the nation gears up to celebrate Independence Day on August 15, it is the opportune moment to revisit some of Bollywood’s most memorable patriotic dialogues that celebrate the essence of India.
1. **Hindustan Zindabad Tha, Zindabad Hai, Zindabad Rahega…**
The dialogue “Hamara Hindustan Zindabad Tha, Zindabad Hai, Zindabad Rahega” from the 2001 period romantic action drama ‘Gadar: Ek Prem Katha’ has left an indelible mark on the hearts of moviegoers. The film is one of the biggest blockbusters, set against the backdrop of the partition, depicting a poignant love story between Tara Singh (Sunny Deol) and Sakina (Ameesha Patel). Their union faces a severe test as Sakina’s father forces her to stay in Pakistan, thereby separating her from her family. The film’s sequel, ‘Gadar 2’, was released on August 11, 2023, and received positive responses from the audience.
2. **Farz aur farzi mein ek maatra ka antar hota hai…**
Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal in ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ brought the powerful dialogue “Farz aur farzi mein ek maatra ka antar hota hai… Agar main apne desh.. Apne bhaiyon ke liy ab nahi lada.. Toh main apne hi nazron mein…. Frazi bankar reh jaunga” to the forefront of patriotic sentiments. Directed and written by debutant Aditya Dhar, the movie conveys a strong message of patriotism through the resolve of a soldier ready to lay down his life for the country.
3. **Watan Ke Aage Kuch Bhi Nahi, Khud Bhi Nhi…
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Meghna Gulzar’s ‘Raazi’, starring Alia Bhatt, is another feather in Bollywood’s cap of patriotic films. Bhatt, playing an undercover RAW agent, delivers the poignant dialogue “Watan ke aage kuch nahi, khud bhi nahi.” This line captures the unrivaled importance of the nation above self. Based on Harinder Sikka’s 2008 novel ‘Calling Sehmat’, the film narrates the true story of an Indian RAW agent who marries into a family of military officers in Pakistan to pass on intelligence to India during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
4. **Mujhe states ke naam na sunayi dete hain na dikhayi dete hain…**
Shah Rukh Khan’s memorable dialogue from ‘Chak De! India’, “Mujhe states ke naam na sunayi dete hain na dikhayi dete hain, sirf ek mulk ka naam sunai deta hai… India,” epitomizes national unity over regional and religious differences. Directed by Shimit Amin and written by Jaideep Sahni, this 2007 sports drama film showcases Khan as Kabir Khan, a fictional former captain of the India men’s national field hockey team and coach of the women’s national team.
5. **Jab wahan border par log apni neend ki parwah kiye bina jagte hain…**
In ‘Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty’, Akshay Kumar’s dialogue “Jab wahan border par log apni neend ki parwah kiye bina jagte hain, tab tumhein yahan sheher mein chain ki neend aati hain” reflects the sacrifices made by soldiers. A remake of the 2012 Tamil film ‘Thuppakki’, the plot follows an Indian Army officer on vacation in Mumbai, who decides to track down and disable a terrorist sleeper cell network.
6. **Yeh azaadi ki ladai hain…**
Aamir Khan’s role in ‘Mangal Pandey: The Rising’ is unforgettable for the dialogue “Yeh azaadi ki ladai hain, guzre hue kal se azaadi… aane waale kal ke liye.” Released in 2005, this historical biographical drama is based on the life of Mangal Pandey, an Indian soldier who played a crucial role in the Indian rebellion of 1857.
These dialogues are merely a glimpse into the rich reservoir of Bollywood’s patriotic offerings, immortalizing the spirit of India. Another notable mention is Hrithik Roshan’s line from ‘Bang Bang’, “Joh desh ke liye ladte hai … unki maut ka countdown unki pehli saans ke saath shuru ho jaata hai,” symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice of soldiers for their homeland.
As the nation approaches Independence Day, revisiting these iconic dialogues not only fills us with pride but also reminds us of the sacrifices made to uphold the sovereignty and dignity of our motherland. Let these powerful words continue to inspire and instill a robust sense of nationalism in every Indian heart.