A patriotic Republic Day for Ragini Dwivedi at Wagah

On a cold Republic Day morning at the iconic Wagah border, actor Ragini Dwivedi joined jawans, BSF officials and fellow citizens for a nine-kilometre bicycle ride under the Fit India Movement’s Cycle on Sundays initiative. For Ragini, the ride went far beyond fitness — it was layered with memory, emotion and a lifelong connection to the armed forces.

Ragini’s emotional connection to the armed forces begins at home. Her father served in the army, and she grew up witnessing the discipline, pride and responsibility that come with the uniform. “I saw my father serve the nation with so much pride. That idea of being a protector, of giving back to society, stays with you,” she says. When asked if she would like to portray an army officer on screen, her answer is instant. “I would love to. I’m always open to different kinds of films and scripts. We don’t explore that space deeply in the Kannada film industry, but if there’s a compelling script — in any language — why not?” she says.

‘The vibe of Wagah is something else’

For someone who grew up as an army kid, celebrating Republic Day at Wagah carried deeper meaning. “It always feels special. The vibe of the Wagah border is something else — it gives you such a strong message,” Ragini says. “It’s not about war; it’s about peace,” she says. Watching officers from both countries stand guard as flags fluttered in the cold breeze stirred a profound sense of pride. She says, “It makes you realise how blessed we are to live in a democratic and secular country. We often underestimate free will, but it’s such an important gift — the freedom to choose who you want to be and what you want to do.”

‘Fitness is about finding a balance, not six-pack abs’

“Fitness, to me, is having a healthy body and a healthy mind. Eating well, sleeping well, staying positive — that’s what truly matters,” she explains. She prefers to keep things simple. “I vouch for yoga, walking and recreational activities. I don’t believe fitness means having a gym body or six-pack abs. It has to be about balance.” The initiative at the Wagah border, she says, was also to encourage young Indians to make healthier lifestyle choices. “It’s about choosing bicycles over cars or bikes, and understanding that fitness isn’t just abs or gym workouts. It’s about living well — walking, eating right, sleeping well, and taking care of both physical and mental health,” she says.


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