Republic Day 2026: Actors Who Redefined Patriotism on Screen
By Lokmat Times Desk | Updated: January 23, 2026 17:42 IST2026-01-23T17:18:13+5:302026-01-23T17:42:05+5:30
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As Neerja Bhanot, Sonam Kapoor portrayed courage without weapons or uniforms. Her performance highlighted that patriotism can also be about humanity, sacrifice, and instinctive bravery.
In Paltan, Arjun Rampal embodied a resolute army officer whose quiet strength, discipline, and sacrifice reflected patriotism rooted in duty rather than display. His performance paid tribute to the resilience of soldiers guarding the nation in the most challenging terrains.
As Rani Lakshmibai, Kangana embodied revolutionary patriotism. Her performance revived the legacy of one of India’s fiercest freedom fighters for a new generation.
As Sehmat, an Indian spy married into a Pakistani household, Alia portrayed silent strength and emotional conflict—showing patriotism through sacrifice rather than aggression.
Vicky Kaushal’s Major Vihaan Shergill became an Independence Day favourite for audiences. His portrayal of a modern Indian soldier blended grit, sacrifice, and emotional depth, inspiring national pride.
As DJ, Aamir Khan portrayed youthful rebellion that evolved into conscious resistance. His character symbolized a generation that questioned authority, demanded accountability, and redefined patriotism for Young India.
As IPS officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, Rani embodied duty, justice, and moral authority. Her performance highlighted law enforcement as a form of national service.
Ajay Devgn’s portrayal of Shaheed Bhagat Singh remains one of Bollywood’s most intense revolutionary performances—fearless, ideological, and deeply impactful.
Sharman Joshi’s Sukhi Ram in Rang De Basanti remains one of Bollywood’s most relatable portrayals of patriotism an ordinary young man whose quiet awakening mirrors that of an entire generation. Extending that thought, War Chhod Na Yaar saw Sharman use humour and humanity to question the futility of conflict, reinforcing the idea that true patriotism often chooses conscience and peace over violence.
Janhvi Kapoor plays the role of Indian Air Force Pilot Gunjan Saxena, highlighting the life of one of the first women to fly in a combat zone during the Kargil War in 1999. Her performance focused on the fact that serving the nation does not look at a specific gender.
In Border 2, Anya Singh plays the on-screen wife of Ahan Shetty, a role that explores the emotional weight carried by families of those who choose National duty. As Anya’s grandfather fought in the 1971 war, the film holds a personal significance for her.
In URI: The Surgical Strike, Yami Gautam Dhar played an intelligence officer whose calmness and intelligence added to the momentum. Her role highlighted the importance of strategy in cases of National security.
