New Delhi: Bollywood has consistently played a crucial role in fostering patriotism through its films, songs, and dialogues. Hindi cinema, renowned for its nationalistic storylines, often revolves around themes of sacrifice and valour. As India gears up to celebrate Independence Day on August 15, let’s delve into some of the most memorable patriotic dialogues that have touched a nerve with audiences and continue to honour the essence of our great nation.
Bollywood has produced several classic films that centre on the concept of patriotism, featuring iconic dialogues that resonate with generations. These powerful lines not only evoke deep patriotic feelings but also celebrate the indomitable spirit of India.
1. Hindustan Zindabad Tha, Zindabad Hai, Zindabad Rahega…
“Hamara Hindustan Zindabad Tha, Zindabad Hai, Zindabad Rahega,” is a famous patriotic line from the 2001 romantic period action drama film, ‘Gadar: Ek Prem Katha’. The film, one of Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters, is set against the backdrop of the partition and tells the poignant love story of Tara Singh (Sunny Deol) and Sakina (Ameesha Patel). Despite their marriage, Sakina’s father forces her to stay in Pakistan, tearing her away from her family. The sequel, ‘Gadar 2’, released on August 11, 2023, was also well-received by the audience.
2. Farz aur farzi mein ek maatra ka antar hota hai…
“Farz aur farzi mein ek maatra ka antar hota hai… Agar main apne desh… Apne bhaiyon ke liye ab nahi lada… Toh main apne hi nazron mein… Frazi bankar reh jaunga.” This dialogue from ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’, starring Vicky Kaushal, written and directed by Aditya Dhar, passionately conveys a soldier’s commitment to his nation, willing to lay down his life for his countrymen.
3. Watan Ke Aage Kuch Bhi Nahi, Khud Bhi Nahi…
In Meghna Gulzar’s ‘Raazi’, Alia Bhatt, playing an undercover RAW agent, delivers the impactful line, “Watan ke aage kuch nahi, khud bhi nahi.
.” This dialogue, highlighting a soldier’s ultimate devotion to their country, is an adaptation of Harinder Sikka’s 2008 novel ‘Calling Sehmat’. The story is based on the real-life account of an Indian Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) spy who, at her father’s request, marries into a family of military officers in Pakistan to gather intelligence for India prior to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
4. Mujhe states ke naam na sunayi dete hain na dikhayi dete hain…
In the 2007 sports drama ‘Chak De! India’, Shah Rukh Khan’s character, Kabir Khan, utters the iconic words, “Mujhe states ke naam na sunayi dete hain na dikhayi dete hain, sirf ek mulk ka naam sunai deta hai… India.” Directed by Shimit Amin and written by Jaideep Sahni, the film emphasizes that national identity transcends regional and religious boundaries. Khan’s role as the coach of the Indian women’s national field hockey team seeking redemption is both heartwarming and inspiring.
5. Jab wahan border par log apni neend ki parwah kiye bina jagte hain…
Akshay Kumar’s ‘Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty’, a remake of the 2012 Tamil film ‘Thuppakki’, features the line: “Jab wahan border par log apni neend ki parwah kiye bina jagte hain, tab tumhein yahan sheher mein chain ki neend aati hain.” This dialogue underscores the relentless vigilance of soldiers guarding our borders, ensuring civilian peace and security.
6. Yeh azaadi ki ladai hai…
“Mangal Pandey: The Rising,” released in 2005, is an Indian historical biographical drama that brings to life the story of Mangal Pandey, an Indian soldier pivotal in sparking the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Aamir Khan, portraying Mangal Pandey, powerfully declares, “Yeh azaadi ki ladai hain, guzre hue kal se azaadi… aane waale kal ke liye.” The dialogue epitomizes the fight for freedom from the past to secure a better future.
These dialogues are just a few examples of many that have stirred patriotic sentiments and immortalized the spirit of India in Bollywood cinema. Another notable line comes from Hrithik Roshan in ‘Bang Bang’: “Joh desh ke liye ladte hain… unki maut ka countdown unki pehli saans ke saath shuru ho jaata hai,” reflecting the perpetual sacrifices soldiers make for their country.
Bollywood continues to play a significant role in immortalizing the spirit of India through its portrayal of patriotism, sacrifice, and heroism. As we commemorate Independence Day, revisiting these dialogues serves as a poignant reminder of the values that underpin our nation and the unwavering spirit of its people.
