Mazel Vyas: Patriotism Isn’t Just About One Day in the Year

Mumbai : Currently seen as Suniel Shetty’s daughter in Hunter 2 – Tootega Nahi, Todega alongside Jackie Shroff, actress Mazel Vyas reflects on the meaning of patriotism as India celebrates its 79th Independence Day. While she acknowledges that celebrations can sometimes lean towards symbolic gestures, she firmly believes that these symbols can still serve a purpose—if they inspire action.
“I do think for a lot of people, Independence Day has become more about posts, reels, and hashtags than about truly remembering the sacrifices made,” she says. “But I also feel that even if it starts symbolically, it can still spark conversations, awareness, and pride. The key is whether we carry that feeling into our everyday lives by being responsible citizens.”
For Mazel, patriotism extends far beyond waving the flag once a year. It is reflected in the small, consistent choices people make—whether it’s following traffic rules, respecting public spaces, or showing kindness and fairness in daily interactions. “If our love for the country only comes out once a year, then we are missing the essence of what our freedom fighters fought for,” she points out.
Speaking about the freedom fighter who has left the deepest impression on her, Mazel says, “For me, Bhagat Singh has always been the most inspiring. His courage at such a young age, his clarity of thought, and his willingness to sacrifice everything for the country remind me that change often comes from those who dare to challenge the norm. He didn’t just dream of a free India—he actively fought for it, even knowing the cost.”

Her vision of patriotism is one that blends pride in the past with responsibility for the present and future. “My message this Independence Day is that patriotism isn’t just about one day in the year. It’s in the everyday actions we take to make our country cleaner, safer, and kinder. Celebrate the freedom we have, but also work towards the freedom we still need—for every person, regardless of their gender, background, or economic status,” she says.