“The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” — Douglas MacArthur. In the medleys of our nation’s history, the sacrifices of soldiers are among the most poignant and profound. Each thread tells a story of bravery, love, and an unwavering commitment to duty that transcends the ordinary. Recently, I watched a film that portrayed the life and untimely death of a young soldier, which engulfed me in a wave of emotions as I grappled with the harsh realities faced by those who serve our country. This experience compelled me to confront my own perceptions of honor, duty, and the respect we owe to these gallant individuals.
Rajkumar Periasamy has re-embarked into the arena of filmmaking with “Amaran,” an ode of patriotism and love that tells the story of Major Mukund Varadarajan and his wife, Indhu Varghese Mukund. The film’s screenplay and impeccable editing create an enigmatic yet poignant narrative that is both riveting and unfeigned. It is a refreshing surprise to witness such a film emerge from this part of the country.
The film paints a vivid picture of a soldier’s life — as a devoted husband, loving father, and son who brings joy to his family. As I immersed myself in the narrative, I became acutely aware of the myriad perspectives surrounding his sacrifice. The young wife left to navigate life alone, the small child who would grow up without a father’s guiding hand, and the aged parents mourning their loss — each character resonated deeply within me.
I felt their pain as if it were my own, tears flowing freely as I contemplated their grief. My thoughts extended to the comrades who fought alongside him, forever haunted by the loss of a brother-in-arms who made the ultimate sacrifice. This emotional journey forced me to confront my own position as a judge in a constitutional Court — a role often accompanied by an inflated sense of pride and power. In stark contrast stood this young soldier whose life was cut short while striving to protect our freedoms.
As citizens of this great nation, we must ask ourselves: Do we truly honor our soldiers? Do we recognize their sacrifices beyond mere lip service? It is easy to express gratitude on national holidays or during commemorative events; however, genuine respect requires deeper reflection and action throughout the year. In an era filled with distractions, societal values can sometimes stray from honoring those who serve.
To cultivate respect for our soldiers in future generations, we must begin by fostering awareness and understanding among children. Incorporating stories of valor and sacrifice into educational curriculum can profoundly impact young minds. By sharing narratives about soldiers who have served not just in battle but also in peacekeeping missions and humanitarian efforts, we can instill pride and respect for military service.
Encouraging children to participate in community events that honor veterans can create meaningful connections between them and those who have served. Activities such as visiting veterans’ homes, participating in parades, or engaging in service projects for military families can foster empathy and understanding.
Creating safe spaces for discussions about military service can help demystify soldiers’ experiences. Schools and community organizations can host panels featuring veterans sharing their stories, allowing children to ask questions and gain insight into military life. Instilling values of service and volunteerism in children can further nurture respect for those who sacrifice for our safety.
As we reflect on our responsibilities toward those who serve, true respect goes beyond words; it requires action. We must advocate for policies that support veterans’ health care, mental health services, and transition programs for returning soldiers. By doing so, we honor their sacrifices not just with gratitude but with tangible support.
Media portrayal significantly impacts public perception of soldiers and military life. The narratives constructed by films, television shows, and news coverage shape societal attitudes toward both military personnel and the conflicts they engage in. For instance, during the Kargil War in India, live reporting brought battle realities into homes, generating nationalistic sentiment and galvanizing public support for troops. This direct engagement humanized soldiers and highlighted their sacrifices. A balanced representation that includes veteran voices is essential for cultivating a more informed public understanding of military life. It is crucial to address both heroism and the challenges faced by service members.
In conclusion, we must cultivate a culture that respects and honors our soldiers not only during times of conflict but throughout their lives. Let us
strive to build a generation that recognizes the depth of sacrifice made by these brave individuals — one that understands that freedom is never free.
In fields where shadows dance with light, Brave souls stand guard through day and night. A mother weeps; a child’s soft plea,
“Daddy’s gone, but I believe.” For every hero lost too soon,
A nation mourns beneath the moon. With silent valor, they endure,
Their sacrifice — our hearts must cure. Let us remember; let us care,
For every soldier’s silent prayer.
In honoring them, we find our way To cherish life each passing day.
As we move forward together as a nation, let us commit ourselves to honoring those who have given so much for our freedom and security. Their sacrifices deserve not only recognition but also action that reflects our deepest gratitude and respect.
