Acclaimed actor and noted speaker Sharad Ponkshe on Friday said that a nation’s identity and character can survive only when its cultural roots remain protected and respected. Addressing a large gathering at the event ‘Andaman Ek Tirthakshetra’ in Laxmi Nagar, Ponkshe expressed concern that Hindus are gradually moving away from their ancient traditions, history and the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. “If we forget our culture, our ancestors and the sacrifices made for this country, the day is not far when our Hindu identity itself will begin to fade,” Ponkshe said during his speech on the topic ‘Hindutva and Hindu Rashtra’.

 

The programme was organised by Shri Siddhivinayak Seva Trust at the Volleyball Ground in Laxmi Nagar. A large crowd attended the second day of the event, where a replica of the historic Cellular Jail of Andaman had been created to highlight the struggles faced by freedom fighters, especially Swatantryaveer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Ponkshe praised the initiative and said the recreation of the Cellular Jail was not just emotionally moving, but also a reminder of the sacrifices made for the nation. “The experience brings tears to the eyes, but more importantly, it should awaken a sense of unity and responsibility among people,” he said. Former Mayor Sandip Joshi, trust president, senior RSS functionary and Padma Shri awardee Dr Vilas Dangre, along with project coordinator Prafull Mategaonkar, BJP Vidarbha office in-charge Sanjay Phanje, were present on the dais. During his address, Ponkshe drew comparisons with other countries and religions across the world.

 

“There are many Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and Jewish nations across the globe, but Hindus do not have a declared sovereign nation of their own. This is a historical reality that should make us think,” he remarked. He also criticised what he described as “distorted secularism” and said India’s traditional values and spiritual foundations were gradually weakening after Independence. Speaking about language and education, Ponkshe claimed that British rule weakened India’s cultural identity by replacing traditional education systems and Sanskrit with English-based learning. He said ancient India once had advanced knowledge systems in science, astronomy and medicine. He concluded by urging people to reconnect with their native languages, cultural traditions and national identity. “Hindutva and Rashtratva should remain the foundation of the nation’s future,” he said.