We're new patriots: Abhi, Ashutosh

Chittagong Uprising teenagers inspire Ashutosh, Abhishek.
You’re sure to have met people who crib about what’s not correct in India but aren’t willing to take responsibility for setting things right. That’s what Ashutosh Gowariker’s Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey, presented by PVR Pictures and releasing on December 3, will compel audiences to think with its storyline ringing with patriotic fervour.
The film is on the group of 56 teenagers, influenced by freedom fighter Surjya Sen (also called Master da) who put their lives at risk to fight for freedom and become a part of India’s biggest revolution — the Chittagong Uprising. At 13, these kids decided to walk the path of self-sacrifice knowing that they might even be killed.
TOI asked Gowariker and Abhishek Bachchan — who plays Surjya — what they did for the country when they were 13. Abhishek said, he was ‘filled with patriotism and willing to do anything and everything’ for the country. While Ashutosh was more into community projects that would benefit his neighbourhood. “I was a conscious human, cleaning my locality, giving clothes to the underprivileged — small things that make a difference,” said the filmmaker.
He was amazed to read about the patriotism of the Chittagong Uprising children. “They were prepared to die for their beliefs. I think they were totally determined to bring a change and free their motherland,” said Gowariker. Abhishek revealed that he, too, was overwhelmed reading about the lives of these teenagers. “It has been a journey that has taught me many firsts,” he said, adding, he has now committed himself to working towards bettering the ‘patriotic sense in our country’ every single day.
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