Virat Kohli honours Armed Forces

Virat Kohli

Indian cricketers, led by Virat Kohli, shared emotional messages as the nation marked its 79th Independence Day.

On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, legendary batter Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message honouring the Indian Armed Forces, joining a host of cricketers who marked the historic day with patriotic tributes. Wishes poured in across social media as the country celebrated the occasion.

Taking to Instagram, Kohli posted a story that read, “Today, we smile in freedom because they stood with unwavering courage. We salute and honour the sacrifices of our heroes on this joyous Independence Day. Proud to be Indian. Jai Hind.” His tribute struck a chord with fans nationwide.

Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer also joined the celebrations, sharing a picture of himself in action before a packed crowd, alongside a message wishing everyone a very happy Independence Day.

Former India captain and spin legend Anil Kumble, the country’s highest wicket-taker in international cricket with 953 wickets in 401 matches, shared a reflective note on social media. He wrote, “A day to celebrate the freedom we earned and reflect on the responsibility it carries. Grateful to those who paved the way. Wishing everyone a proud and peaceful Independence Day. #IndependenceDay.”

Former middle-order stalwart VVS Laxman reflected on the sacrifices that earned India its freedom while calling for a united effort to build a stronger future. He wrote, “On this Independence Day, let us remember the countless sacrifices that won us the gift of freedom. Let us strive each day to build a brighter, stronger India that our future generations will be proud of. Wishing you a Happy #IndependenceDay! Jai Hind!”

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All-rounder Irfan Pathan highlighted the importance of unity and the duty to protect the nation’s hard-earned freedom, stating, “Wishing every Indian a Happy Independence Day! Our freedom was hard-earned; our duty is to keep it alive — in spirit, in action, and in unity. Jai Hind!” Batting great Sachin Tendulkar posted a picture of himself waving the Indian flag with the message, “Happy Independence Day! Jai Hind!”

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the tricolour at the Red Fort to mark the celebrations. Flying Officer Rashika Sharma assisted him during the ceremony. The event featured a symbolic aerial salute, with two Mi-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force flying overhead and showering flower petals — one chopper carrying the national flag and the other the ‘Operation Sindoor’ flag. Wing Commander Vinay Poonia and Wing Commander Aditya Jaiswal piloted the aircraft.

This year’s Independence Day carried the theme ‘Naya Bharat,’ reflecting the government’s vision of achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047.

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Last Updated on August 15, 2025