Rohit Purohit urges people to move beyond symbolic gestures and embrace patriotism through daily actions.
Drawing inspiration from Bhagat Singh and other freedom fighters, he calls for responsibility, compassion, and consistency in serving the nation.
Actor Rohit Purohit, who is currently winning hearts as Armaan Poddar in Rajan Shahi’s much-loved show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, believes that Independence Day is far more than just a ceremonial celebration marked on the 15th of August. For him, it is an annual reminder—a call to reflect on the sacrifices of those who came before us and to recommit ourselves to building the India they dreamt of.
Every single day is an opportunity to serve our country
“Somewhere, for many people, patriotism has become limited to posting a few pictures or listening to patriotic songs on 15th August. There’s nothing wrong in doing that—it keeps the spirit alive—but true patriotism is not a one-day feeling. It’s reflected in our everyday actions: following the law, respecting each other’s rights, paying taxes honestly, protecting public property, keeping our surroundings clean, and showing compassion to those around us. Every single day is an opportunity to serve our country in small yet meaningful ways,” Rohit shares with conviction.
When it comes to inspiration, he finds himself deeply moved by the story of Bhagat Singh. He says, “He was only in his early twenties, yet he had the clarity and courage that most of us spend a lifetime searching for. His sacrifice was not just about independence from British rule—he envisioned an India rooted in equality, justice, and dignity for all. That kind of foresight at such a young age is extraordinary.”
Freedom is not just a gift—it’s a responsibility
But for Rohit Purohit, the story of India’s freedom struggle is not about one hero—it is a tapestry woven with countless sacrifices. He says, “How can one not be inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s unshakable belief in non-violence, by Subhas Chandra Bose’s fearless call to action, by Rani Lakshmibai’s unmatched bravery on the battlefield, or by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s ability to unite more than 500 princely states into one nation?
We had Sarojini Naidu, the Nightingale of India, whose eloquence and leadership inspired generations, and revolutionaries like Chandrashekhar Azad, who lived and died with an unbreakable resolve. Then there were unsung heroes—farmers, workers, and ordinary citizens—whose names may not be in textbooks but whose sacrifices were no less significant.”
These figures are not just chapters in history books—they are guiding lights for the present. He says, “Patriotism is not always grand or dramatic. Sometimes, it is as simple as helping a stranger, speaking up against injustice, planting a tree, or supporting the education of a child who might otherwise be left behind. We may not be called to fight on battlefields, but we are still soldiers in the ongoing mission of making India stronger, fairer, and more compassionate.”
For him, Independence Day is both a celebration and a mirror
As an actor with a strong connection to audiences through his role in YRKKH, Rohit Purohit sees it as a responsibility to use his voice for good. He says, “I want to tell people—love your country not just through words but through your actions. Small, consistent efforts can create big change. Freedom is not just a gift—it’s a responsibility. We didn’t earn it ourselves; it was handed to us at a tremendous cost. The least we can do is honour it by being better citizens every day.”
For him, Independence Day is both a celebration and a mirror. “It’s a day to wave the tricolour proudly, yes, but also to look within and ask ourselves—are we living in a way that would make our freedom fighters proud? If the answer is no, then we have work to do. Let’s not wait for the 15th of August to feel patriotic. Let’s live patriotism—every single day,” he concludes.
