Patriotism means love for one’s country but it does not mean hatred for other countries. It means an instinct foe working hard and honestly for one’s own country and making any sacrifice, if need be, for its security, freedom and integrity.
Today we are breathing the air of freedom because of true and great patriots like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawahar Lai Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad and many others who made great sacrifices arid suffered untold miseries to achieve the goal of freedom after a long and tedious struggle while fighting Valiantly against the mighty and cruel Britishers.
Guru Gobind Singh had sacrificed his near and dear ones, including his entire family, to bring freedom to us. So, patriotism is the spirit which seeks happiness through supreme sacrifice for the country. But today, unfortunately, the people of our country have lost the spirit of patriotism. It is particularly lacking among our leaders who have turned selfish and self-centered.
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Such leaders can’t give proper-guidance to the young men who are the future helmsmen of our country. They grab public land and property and violate all laws. They consider themselves above law. They pose to be highly religious, moral and patriotic but are nowhere near anything which is essential for a truly good and great life.
In spite of their mentalities, true patriotism still exists in the hearts of our young men and was particularly proved by our young brave soldiers during three wars with Pakistan and one with China when they showed utmost velour and courage.
It is of utmost importance that the spirit of patriotism should be instilled in the minds of young children from the very beginning. The teachings and relevance of our great cultural heritage, which is above all religious, regional and cartelistic barriers, should also be taught.