“As a sportsman…”: Sachin Tendulkar and Saina Nehwal lead Independence Day wishes

In a moving display of patriotism, Indian sporting icons came together to express their heartfelt wishes on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day. From cricket legends to Olympic and Paralympic champions, athletes have taken to social media to share their greetings with the nation. “Sportspeople are not the only ones who play for India. Every Indian who does his job with honesty and sincerity is a key player for Team India. So when the national anthem is played today, know that it is for you, and I hope you’ll feel the same way I heard this every time I went out to play for India,” Sachin Tendulkar posted on X.

Sportspeople are not the only ones who play for India. Every Indian who does his job with honesty and sincerity is a key player for Team India. So when the national anthem plays today, know that it’s for you, and I hope you feel the same way I did when I heard it every time…

-Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) August 15, 2024

Olympic medalist Saina Nehwal said, “As a sportsperson, I have learned the value of freedom on the field, but it is the freedom of our nation that gives us the strength to dream big. Happy Independence Day!”

As a sportsman, I learned the value of freedom on the field, but it is the freedom of our nation that gives us the strength to dream big. Happy Independence Day!#JaiHind #FreedomToDream #HappyIndependenceDay pic.twitter.com/cOkTpIr6dD

-Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) August 15, 2024

Indian men’s hockey stalwart PR Sreejesh said, “Proud Indian, I wish you all a memorable Independence Day! May the spirit of freedom and patriotism fill your heart with pride.”

India men’s national cricket team coach Gautam Gambhir shared, “Freedom has a price. Our heroes pay it every day with their blood! Never forget #HappyIndependenceDay”

Freedom has a price. Our heroes pay every day with their blood! Never forget #HappyIndependenceDaypic.twitter.com/wJgY4IH5pi

– Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 15, 2024

Former India women’s cricket captain Mithali Raj wrote, “Every time our tricolor flutters in the wind, it tells a story of resilience, hope and tireless pursuit of freedom. Our nation’s journey is a testament to the strength we have found in unity and the dreams we share. Today, we honor our past and look to a future filled with infinite possibilities for all Indians, wherever they are.

Paralympic champion transporter Pramod Bhagat also conveyed his greeting on the occasion: “Happy Independence Day! Let us take a moment to reflect on our journey as a nation and commit to contributing to a better future for all. Together, we are unstoppable!”

Former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad wrote, “Let’s celebrate the courage and sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom. Let’s stand united and work for progress and equality for all Indians. Happy Independence Day”

“Always proud and honored to be alongside our tricolor! Wishing everyone a Happy Independence Day,” posted former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh.

Always proud and honored to be alongside our tricolor!

We wish you all a Happy Independence Day #HappyIndependenceDay pic.twitter.com/cgYJTa6OKK

– Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) August 15, 2024

The theme of this year’s Independence Day celebration is ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’, which aims to propel the country towards its goal of becoming a developed nation by the year 2047.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unfurled the national flag and delivered his customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort.

Around 6,000 special guests representing diverse sections of Indian society, including youth, tribal communities, farmers, women and beneficiaries of various government programs, were invited to witness the ceremony.