Ctions over words: ohit Chauhan’s take ‘real patriotism’ n

Mohit Chauhan is very clear about the difference between jingoism and patriotism. And when it comes to the latter, the singer believes actions speak louder than words.

“In jingoism, you can use certain words to send across a message to people. When you put actions behind your words, real patriotism comes out,” he says, on the occasion of Independence Day, hoping one can “work towards putting our country first”.

Chauhan has crooned several chartbusters, including Tum Se Hi (Jab We Met, 2007), Masakali (Delhi-6, 2009) and Sadda Haq (Rockstar, 2011). While many of his compositions became youth anthems, his latest track, Ae Vatan, happens to be his first full-fledged patriotic song.

“I have sung Khoon Chala for Rang De Basanti (2006), but it wasn’t out and out patriotic. Usme jazbe ki baat hai, this one is more directly patriotic,” Chauhan tells us.

The 55-year-old has always had a lot of love for the Armed Forces, and has performed in concerts for them, in the past. “About three years ago, I did seven concerts for the Indian Army in Sikkim. They even gave me permission to travel to Frontier post and perform for jawans there,” he recalls, adding, “I travelled to

Ladki Deewani Ladka Deewana (Shastra; 1996), says, “Completing 25 years has given me the confidence to keep doing what I love to do.”

Looking back at her first film song recording, she tells us, “I had five to six cups of tea before singing to calm myself