What patriotism means to me

Megan kachari, 52

Poet, former publicity secretary of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA)

"The revival of regressive forces has threatened the existence of Dalits, tribals and minorities. With scant respect for democratic institutions and the Constitution, they seek to impose a crude and exhibitionist form of nationalism. Patriotism is every citizen's call of the soul. It's not imposed, it's a natural instinct."

Kamala Shankar, 52

Musician

"Patriotism or national pride is the feeling of love, devotion and sense of attachment to the homeland and with the citizens who share the same sentiment. It is about taking pride in one's origin and working for the prosperity of the country. Being a musician, I feel music itself has the capability to influence one's mood and psychology and when we add the feeling of patriotism to it, the results are overwhelming. Those songs can invoke awe and greatness. Indian music has been an expression of patriotism right from the days of our freedom struggle and Hindustani classical music is patriotic as it is Indian to the core. I connect and influence the audience through my music played on