New Delhi, India, August 16, 2021: India’s sporting heroes, including Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra and boxing legend Mary Kom, were part of the Tokyo Olympics contingent at the country’s Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort on Saturday, August 14.
Javelin thrower Chopra, Kom and the men’s hockey team captain Manpreet Singh were among many in the Tokyo Olympics contingent which posted photos with the Red Fort in the background as India celebrated its 75th Independence Day.
The sporting icons from all disciplines, including former cricket star Sachin Tendulkar, tweeted what representing the nation by carrying the flag around the world meant to them.
Chopra, who became only the second Indian to win an individual Olympic gold medal, said: “It was an honour to attend the Independence Day celebrations at the historic Red Fort today. As an athlete and a soldier, my heart is full of emotion when I see the national flag flying high. Jai Hind!”
Tendulkar posted a picture from his playing days and said: “I have always worn the Flag of India on my helmet and with pride and it always reminded me why I stepped on the field. Wish a very Happy 75th Independence Day to all the Indians across the globe. Jai Hind!”
The Indian Tokyo Olympics contingent took part in a group photograph with the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, with captain of the bronze medal-winning men’s hockey team Manpreet Singh tweeting: “A Big thank you to Honourable President of India Ram Nath Kovind sir for inviting and hosting all of us over a High Tea at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre.”
Athlete Dutee Chand tweeted: “It’s always a pride to stand near the National Flag. Today is a very memorable day for me as I am at Red Fort attending the 75th Independence Day of India with Honourable PM and all esteemed guests. Wish you all Happy Independence Day.”
