Ramayana: Part 1: Rakul Preet Singh recalls I-Day as Army-school festival

Independence Day carries a strong emotional connection for Rakul Preet Singh. The actress grew up in a military family and spent much of her childhood around Army cantonments. Her early experiences continue to shape how she views the national occasion.

Rakul Preet Singh is the daughter of Col.

(Retd.) Kulwinder Singh, who served with the Indian Army's Regiment of Artillery. His service involved several postings, including assignments near border areas. This meant Rakul Preet Singh's childhood was closely connected with military life. For the actress, August 15 was more than an annual national holiday. It became an occasion associated with school memories, patriotic activities and celebrations.

Independence Day was a festival for Rakul Preet Singh

Rakul Preet Singh studied at Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan, Delhi. She recalled the special atmosphere at her school whenever Independence Day approached. She told The Freepress Journal, “As a Military Child, Independence Day wasn’t just another day on the calendar; it was a festival. I attended the Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan, Delhi, and some of my best school memories are of the grand celebrations of Independence Day.

”The actress also participated in activities centred around patriotism. Among her memories are patriotic song competitions, which she said left a lasting impression on her. “I can recall joining in patriotic song competitions and being very proud to sing for my country. In retrospect, I see how those moments helped to form my definition of patriotism from a very young age.”

Rakul Preet Singh speaks about her love for India

Rakul Preet Singh continues to hold a strong emotional connection with India.

Her comments suggest that the feelings she developed during childhood have remained important to her. “What I felt for India and its respect and love remains a very special one in my heart even today,” she said. For Rakul Preet Singh, Independence Day is closely linked to the environment in which she was raised. Her father's military career exposed her to a lifestyle where national service was part of everyday life.

The actress' recollections also highlight how childhood experiences can influence one's understanding of patriotism long after school years are over.More about Rakul Preet Singh on the work frontRakul Preet Singh is set to take on the pivotal role of Shurpanakha in

Nitesh Tiwari

’s highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of the '

Ramayana

'. She joins a star-studded cast that includes Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. Addressing her decision to accept the role, the actress shared that she was deeply drawn to Shurpanakha’s emotional complexity and nuanced narrative beyond the single dramatic event history typically remembers her for. Expressing her excitement for characters that challenge conventional perceptions, Rakul hopes audiences view the role with an open mind when 'Ramayana: Part 1' hits theaters for its grand Diwali 2026 release.