Actors John Abraham and Sonakshi Sinha paid a unique tribute at Amar Jawaan Jyoti to launch Force 2. By Unnati Joshi
While soldierly acts of valour are being liberally talked about, it took a conscientious John Abraham and his leading lady Sonakshi Sinha to talk about martyrs whom we have lost to covert ops and who are never discussed in the scroll of honour.
Paying tribute to the unknown soldiers at Amar Jawaan Jyoti, the duo twinned to perfection, flaunting olive green T-shirts emblazoned with “Respect the Indian forces” and wearing Army pants.
Since the film is about honouring unsung heroes, John said, “Even today, there are many unrecognised and forgotten martyrs from various intelligence agencies who need to gain recognition, if not celebrated. It’s our humble request to the system to recognise those who have sacrificed their lives while serving the nation. It’s disheartening that these people put their lives at stake, without giving second thoughts to whether their efforts or sacrifice will ever be recognised. We understand that revealing names of people, who are currently serving, may lead to political or security issues. However, it’s a meek request that the long pending cases of people get resolved, giving them their needed status and recognition in our society.”
“We have shot in a place where we had to stay with soldiers and that’s when we got to know what they are doing for our country. We just want their sacrifices to be respected by everyone and that is why we are here,” said Sonakshi explaining her presence there.
If the rumours are to believed John will be launching a petition addressing the government to recognise the sacrifices of the undercover agents and spies. “The film’s story is inspired from true life events. Force 2 is a very credible and a real film. A year ago, we had thought of paying tribute to the Amar Jawan Jyoti while conceptualising the film. I feel these undercover soldiers are the real life heroes.”
The actors placed a wreath near the Amar Jawaan Jyoti and appealed that spies who lose their lives in shielding the country also get the recognition and status that martyrs get in India.
Vindo Sawhney (president ex sleuths), who was in Pakistan for 11 long years as a prisoner of war, said, “Our history is filled with many stories of the bravehearts. They have given us a safe and bright future and we can never forget it.”
Photo: Pankaj Kumar