From Virat Kohli to Mirabai Chanu: Sporting icons wish countrymen on India’s Independence Day

On Monday (August 15) India celebrates 75 years of independence from the British Raj. The country had on August 15, 1947 (It’s the 75th anniversary of India’s independence, but it’s still the 76th Independence Day). Every year, Landmark Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country.

As India immersed itself in the celebrations and remembered its freedom fighters who fought for the country, Sports Brotherhood members took to their official Twitter addresses to express wishes on a historic day. Personalities such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Sania Mirza, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu and many others have joined the procession to grant wishes to compatriots on Monday morning. Here are some of the reactions from the country’s superstar athletes:

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On Monday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the national flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi on a historic occasion. He also paid tribute to freedom fighters like Tatya Tope, Ram Prasad Bismil and Ashfaqullah Khan who fought hard to liberate the country from the British.

Welcoming the soldiers, police forces and citizens, Prime Minister Modi said in his speech, “There have been problems of food security, war, terrorism and natural disasters, but India has progressed against all odds. Our nation has proven that we have inherent strength because of our diversity. My understanding of the spirit of India made me see that we must ensure inclusive development for New India.” He added: “Every nation that has progressed has discipline rooted in its citizens; if everyone lives up to their responsibilities, India will grow rapidly.”