"Himachal Ki Beti Preity Zinta Salutes the Unsung Warriors Behind the Uniforms"
Shimla/Jaipur – When Bollywood actor and proud Himachali daughter Preity Zinta walked into the auditorium of the South Western Command during an Army Women’s Welfare Association (AWWA) event, she wasn’t just a celebrity on stage — she was a fellow Indian, deeply moved and transformed by the stories of sacrifice etched in every smile, every silence, and every salute in that hall.
Driving in, Preity noticed a trail of posters along the way — portraits of soldiers who had either returned as heroes or become memories wrapped in the tricolour.
“These men were someone’s husbands, sons, brothers, and fathers. They gave up their today for our tomorrow,” she said, visibly emotional.
The moment hit harder as she met the Veer Naris — widows of brave soldiers — and their children inside the auditorium. “There were no tears. Just quiet strength, dignity, and pride. Their smiles hid a thousand sacrifices,” she reflected.
In response to their unshakable courage, Preity Zinta came bearing more than just words of support.
She pledged over ₹1 crore towards the education and welfare of these families — a personal contribution, but also a public reminder. “It was my way of saying thank you — to let them know they’re not forgotten. We are indebted to them forever.”
The actor, who hails from Siao village in Rohru, Shimla district, shared how the event reshaped her perspective:
“We may admire our soldiers in conversations or during national holidays, but the reality is, most of us forget them the next day. Meeting their families changed that for me.”
Preity’s act of kindness and her stirring words have struck a chord across India.
She reminded us that bravery doesn’t always wear a uniform — sometimes, it wears a saree, holds a child’s hand, and quietly keeps the memory of a martyr alive.
“I left with a heart full of gratitude. I know our country is safe because of heroes like these. I’ve done my part — now I hope each one of us finds a way to do theirs,” she said, her voice firm with purpose.
Her message was clear: True patriotism lies not just in saluting the soldier, but in standing beside the families they leave behind.
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