New Delhi, August 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
ICC Chairman Jay Shah and former India captain Virat Kohli led a host of athletes, cricketers, sporting bodies and IPL franchises in extending Independence Day greetings as India celebrated its 80th Independence Day on Saturday.
Their messages centred on freedom, national unity, sacrifice, diversity and the aspirations of a country looking towards the future. The year also marks 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, which played an important role in India’s freedom movement.
Jay Shah said the true strength of a nation lay in the values that brought its people together. “The true strength of a nation lies not only in its victories, but in the values that unite its people. Wishing everyone a proud and Happy Independence Day,” he posted.
Kohli, in a message on Instagram, wrote: “Happy Independence Day. Celebrating the freedom that unites us, the diversity that defines us, and the dreams that drive us forward. May we continue building an India that inspires generations. Jai Hind.”
Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Shreyas Iyer also posted Independence Day greetings.
Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra used the occasion to highlight the importance of sport and equal opportunities for children. He said every child should have the right and opportunity to play, describing sport as a source of both joy and freedom.
Former India cricketer VVS Laxman called on citizens to honour the sacrifices behind Independence and contribute towards a stronger, more united and progressive India. Mithali Raj also extended greetings, while Suresh Raina recalled the symbolism of the Tricolour and the sacrifices made over 80 years of freedom.
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan reflected on the significance of representing the country, saying some of the proudest moments of his life came while wearing the India jersey.
Several sporting organisations and IPL franchises also marked the occasion. Hockey India, the National Rifle Association of India and the Athletics Federation of India shared messages centred on national pride and sporting ambition.
IPL franchises including SunRisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals also extended Independence Day greetings, linking the occasion with unity, dreams and the country’s continuing journey.
Indian men’s cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir paid tribute to those whose sacrifices made freedom possible, writing: “Their sacrifice. Our freedom. Our responsibility: India. Jai Hind.”
The BCCI and former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also conveyed their greetings.
Cricket commentator and analyst Harsha Bhogle used the occasion to underline the importance of preserving freedom, remembering those who fought for Independence and acknowledging the contribution of ordinary citizens who helped build the nation in its early years.
Together, the messages from India’s sporting community reflected a common emphasis on freedom, sacrifice, unity, sporting aspiration and the responsibilities accompanying the country’s 80th year of Independence.
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