Is Akshay Kumar a True NRI Patriot or a False Nationalist?
Akshay Kumar, an international renowned Bollywood actor, has recently raised questions in the Indian public domain concerning his citizenship. Some Indians call for his support on the grounds that his actions exemplify NRI (Non-Resident Indian) nationality. However, others criticize him for holding a Canadian passport, pointing out that this act allegedly undermines his national loyalty. This article aims to dissect various perspectives surrounding Akshay Kumar's citizenship status and actions, ultimately determining whether he can truly be considered a model of NRI nationalism.
Understanding the Issue
The debate centers on Akshay Kumar's decision to take up Canadian citizenship. This has led to a greater scrutiny of individuals who hold foreign passports while still identifying themselves as Indians, questioning whether they can truly support and promote Indian nationhood.
The Origin of the Debate
The discourse emits from his dual citizenship and the actions it symbolizes. Many argue that his standing as a "patriot" is compromised because of his allegiance to a foreign country. Others, however, contend that citizenship is but a legal document and that the heart and spirit of a nation can be expressed and supported regardless of one's legal papers.
Argument for Akshay Kumar as a True NRI Patriot
Proponents of Akshay Kumar as a true NRI nationalist point to his dedication to India. They argue that it is not merely about one's citizenship, but about actions and contributions. For instance, he has donated a significant sum of 10,000,000 rupees to the cyclone Fani victims, demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of his homeland. He has also made movies that promote positive social messages, like 'Toilet: Ek Prem Katha' which addresses the issues of open defecation, thereby fostering societal change. These substantial contributions to India's cultural and humanitarian fabric cannot be ignored.
Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Akshay Kumar does not criticize Indian soldiers; rather, he creates films that celebrate and honor them. This distinguishes him from those who critically comment on Indian soldiers or advocate division, such as Kanhaiya Kumar, Swara Bhaskar, and others who question the bravery and the actions of India's soldiers. Thus, Kumar's contributions are seen as a more positive and constructive form of patriotism.
Arguments Against Akshay Kumar as a True NRI Patriot
Opponents argue that harboring a Canadian passport automatically discredits any claims of being a true NRI nationalist. They highlight the misunderstanding of Canadian Honorary Citizenship and its implications, emphasizing that it does not grant citizenship or confer any political or economic rights. Honorary citizenship in Canada is an honor bestowed on a few exceptional individuals, none of whom matches Akshay Kumar’s stature.
The Myth of Honorary Citizenship
Honorary citizenship is a recognition of contributions made to a country, but it does not imply citizenship status. As of now, Canada has only bestowed honorary citizenship on six people, and Akshay Kumar is not among them. His actions and words should be judged based on his public contributions and positive societal impact, not on the misconception of a foreign passport.
Conclusion
The debate over Akshay Kumar's status as a true NRI nationalist highlights the complex relationship between legal citizenship and genuine national allegiance. While his donations and movies are commendable, his dual citizenship status remains a point of contention. Whether he is a true patriot or a false nationalist may depend on one’s perspective, but his significant contributions to India are undeniable. As global citizens, it is crucial to evaluate individuals based on their actions and contributions rather than their legal documents.
Keywords: Akshay Kumar, NRI Nationalism, Indian Citizenship