Patriotism without nationalism

IS patriotism possible without nationalism? The answer is a plain and simple 'no'. But unfortunately the members of our younger generation are more inclined to follow the westerners to grab modernisation and in the process they also tend to forget their own nationalism. If fire is not able to expand its yellow golden spark in absence of air, how can patriotism survive without nationalism?

The national martyrs' memorial is a well known symbol of our nationalism. It represents the seven most important events of our war of liberation. If these events are analysed, we shall find that patriotism alone was not able to bring about liberation and in this case, and nationalism played the pivotal role. Since nationalism is an integral part of patriotism, one ceases to exist without the other. We should remember fire loses its strength if there is no air. Similarly, if nationalism is gone, patriotism will die a natural death.

Let us all take an oath on the eve of our independence day that "we shall kindle the fire of patriotism with an air of nationalism blowing all over the place".

Jumana Haque Mim

East Muslimpara, Block :A; Road No :01

Post Office: Kutubpur

District: Narayangonj

[email protected]