PONDA: Bollywood actor Padma Shri Nana Patekar has appealed to youth to “truly understand and imbibe the ideals of Shivaji”.
He was addressing a Shivjayanthi programme at Ponda bus stand on Wednesday.
“We should unite but our unity should not to create fear in minds of the people of other religions. The needs of yesterday and today are different. We form associations because its aim is to do good work,” he said.
Appealing to the youth to be wary of politicians with vested interests, he said, “Youth should not fall prey to divide and rule politics of politicians. Don’t fall into the trap of caste and creed and religions.”
“We must live as human beings and contribute towards humanity. We are human being and should run to the help of a person in distress at neighbouring house. We should not live like animals and die, because we have a brain to think. We must keep in mind that we all are Indians and our unity should not only limited to Hindus, but should go beyond that and form unity with Catholics and Muslims,” he urged.
Reminding that all are proud of their religions, he said, “That does not mean we should not be united. Why can’t we all be united? Respecting all faiths and by stating united, we can achieve great things for India.”
He said King Shivaji had the ability to take with him all the caste and religious people.
“His Army chief was a Muslim and his soldiers belonged to all religions. We should not show unity and strength to frighten others but to protect others. We should treat all Indians equally,” he appealed.
He also appealed to the youth to take care of their parents because “they are almost equal to god, therefore, you should always stay in their company”.
Actor Kapil Zaveri and Deputy Chief Minister Babu Kavlekar also spoke on the occasion.
The programme was organised by Hindivi Swaraj. On the occasion, several artists were felicitated.