Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has sparked a national conversation by questioning the content of Indian history textbooks. During the promotional events for his upcoming film Sky Force, Akshay highlighted the urgent need for reform in how history is taught in schools. He emphasized the exclusion of stories about India’s real-life heroes, particularly soldiers whose sacrifices and bravery have shaped the nation. His remarks have resonated with many, reigniting debates about how history should be documented and taught to future generations.
The Call for Reform in History Textbooks
Akshay Kumar stated, “We often read about figures like Akbar and Aurangzeb in history books, but the stories of our real heroes, who saved the nation through their bravery, are missing.” He criticized the lack of representation of Indian soldiers and freedom fighters, whose contributions are pivotal to India’s history but remain largely undocumented in educational curriculums.
This gap in historical narratives, he believes, does a disservice to students who grow up unaware of the real sacrifices made by Indian heroes. Akshay urged that the inclusion of these stories is essential not just for knowledge but also for instilling a sense of pride and patriotism in younger generations.
“I Deliberately Choose These Stories”: Akshay Kumar’s Mission
In an interview with News18, Akshay Kumar elaborated on his career choices, stating, “I deliberately choose to portray characters that are missing from our textbooks. These are unsung heroes, whose stories are not known because no one has deeply researched or shared them.”
The actor’s inclination toward such roles is evident in his filmography, where he has consistently portrayed real-life figures and events, from social reformers to military legends. He believes these narratives not only enrich cinematic storytelling but also serve as a medium to educate and inspire the audience.
Akshay reiterated that bringing these forgotten heroes to the forefront is a personal mission. “These stories are too important to be ignored,” he said, emphasizing the role of cinema in bridging the gaps left by formal education.
The Need for Recognizing Military Bravery in History Books
During the interview, Akshay Kumar highlighted a pressing issue: the lack of acknowledgment of Indian military personnel in history books. He pointed out that while students are taught about historical emperors and invaders, there is minimal focus on soldiers who have been awarded prestigious honors like the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for valor.
“There are countless stories from our armed forces—stories of courage, resilience, and sacrifice—that deserve a place in our history books,” Akshay said. He believes that these accounts can serve as powerful examples for future generations, inspiring them to understand the value of service and patriotism.
A Broader Cultural Debate: Whose History Gets Told?
Akshay Kumar’s remarks have reignited a broader debate about the biases in historical documentation. Critics argue that Indian history, as taught in schools, often glorifies invaders and rulers while sidelining grassroots heroes, freedom fighters, and soldiers. This skewed representation fails to provide a holistic understanding of the country’s past.
Historians and educators have long called for a reevaluation of history textbooks, advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and regional narratives. Akshay’s statements lend weight to these demands, bringing the issue to the forefront of public discourse.
