Shehzad Roy Warns: ‘Our Sense of Patriotism Has Degenerated’

As 2024 enters its later stages, Pakistan celebrated 77 years of Independence on August 14. The day was filled with festivities that began at midnight, with green and white flags, pennants, musical harps, and even bullets marking the occasion. A major form of celebration was aerial firing, an activity enjoyed by both the young and old. While many displayed their patriotism by hoisting the Pakistani flag, others took to the streets, firing randomly in all directions. Little thought was given to the fate of the bullet, dipped in green to symbolize national pride, once it left the gun. Singer-songwriter and activist Shehzad Roy used his Instagram Story to highlight the consequences of aerial firing.

Shehzad Roy Voices a Story

Shehzad shared the story of a 30-year-old woman who became the victim of a stray bullet fired in the name of patriotism while she was on her balcony. Although she is now out of danger after a successful operation, the incident raises an important question: Are there better ways to express the spirit of patriotism?

“On our Independence Day this year, a 30-year-old woman stepped out into her home’s balcony, only to become a victim of someone’s celebratory aerial fighting.” The Laga Reh singer expressed his utmost disappointment to his viewers while questioning the true meaning behind celebrations of independence and their consequences.

“When she was operated today, a green-tipped bullet emerged from her arm. Very sad that this is what our sense of patriotism has degenerated into,” he wrote.

Mass celebrations on historic days are commonplace all over the world. Unfortunately, in many areas of Pakistan, the means often endanger unsuspecting civilians and harmless fauna creatures. Although Shehzad makes an active effort to highlight one case, many go unreported within the broader expanse of the country every year.

Who is Shehzad Roy?

Shehzad Roy  is a Pakistani singer-songwriter, guitarist, activist, social worker, producer, and humanitarian. He began his music career in 1995 and has since released six albums. Known for hits like “Saali,” “Teri Soorat,” and “Kangna,” he gained widespread recognition for his 2008 socio-political album Qismat Apney Haath Mein. Roy is also the founder and president of Zindagi Trust, a non-governmental charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of education for the average Pakistani.

Also Read: Shehzad Roy Clarifies: ‘My Humanitarian Work Isn’t for Sawab’