Patriotism cannot be forced: Vidya Balan

Actor Vidya Balan has voiced her opinion on the controversy over playing the national anthem in theatres, saying patriotism cannot be forced. “I don’t think the national anthem should be played before films. You’re not in school where you start the day with the national anthem,” said Balan. She said that she loves her country and would go to any length to defend it. “But I don’t need to be told. When I hear the national anthem, I stand up wherever I am,” she said. The actor, who is one of the board members of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), said she saw the opportunity to bring about a change when she was asked to join the board. “The entire film industry was feeling a certain way with the previous censor board. And then, when I was asked whether I’d be able to be on the board, I thought this as an opportunity to bring about change,” she said. “So, unless I agree to be part of that change or at least attempt to be part of it, I can’t criticise it anymore. Which is why I said ‘ok’,” she added. Balan said the board members are “on the same page and looking ahead”. On the GST controversy surrounding the movie Mersal, Balan said a film was “either someone’s imagination or interpretation” and it should not be seen as making a political statement.

I don’t think the national anthem should be played before films. We’re not in school. Patriotism cannot be forced VIDYA BALAN, ACTOR