What Does Patriotism Mean? 120 Bahadur Actor Ankit Siwach Explains

News18

a day ago

Independence Day for Ankit Siwach was never just a holiday, it was a celebration of unity, joy, and pride.
Ankit Siwach has been winning hearts through his work in television, web series, and films, but behind the glamour of the screen lies a man deeply rooted in discipline, values, and love for his country. This Independence Day, the actor, who comes from a proud farming and defence background, opened up about what freedom, patriotism, and responsibility truly mean to him.
Born in Meerut Cantt, the city where the first battle of freedom in 1857 began, patriotism runs in Ankit's blood. 'Independence Day is always very special and I am personally very proud of being born in the Cantonment area. I have seen the Army very personally, with my cousins serving in the army. So Independence Day holds a very special place in my heart," he shares.
Growing up in a family of farmers and defence, discipline was a part of Ankit's everyday life. 'You see people from the Army jogging at 4 a.m. on Mall Road and coming home by 5 p.m., playing sports in the evening, it's a lifestyle. Even the school I went to, St Mary's Academy, added to those values. Being hardworking, disciplined, diligent, all of that comes first. Talent comes much later," he shares.
Independence Day for Ankit was never just a holiday; it was a celebration of unity, joy, and pride. He fondly recalls, 'We used to have a grand celebration in our school. After that, we would take our bikes, hold the Tiranga in our hands, roam around the city, play the dhol, enjoy food, play cricket, and have a great get-together. It used to be one of the best days of the year."
For him, patriotism in today's time goes beyond waving the flag. 'To me, patriotism means being a good citizen, not just of the country, but of the world. It's about doing the basics right: stop polluting, avoid corruption, conserve energy, prevent food wastage, treat people with kindness, pay your taxes on time, contribute to society, and love every living being around you. Be responsible, stay aware, and instead of blaming the system, work to become a positive part of it, because change begins at home," he says.
And to the youth of India, Ankit's message is heartfelt and powerful: 'Stay deeply connected to our identity as Indians. Be aware of our history, culture, languages, and traditions, these are our roots. If our roots are strong, we can grow higher and stronger. We, the youth, must take charge of our country, be responsible, and love and respect every element that makes India what it is. We are responsible for both what goes right and what goes wrong. So my message is simple: take charge."
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