Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker extend Independence Day 2026 greetings as PM Modi announces a nationwide sports talent hunt for children.
New Delhi: Indian sporting stars Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker extended Independence Day greetings to the nation on Saturday, celebrating India’s 80th Independence Day with messages of pride, patriotism and sporting ambition.
The athletes’ messages came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined India’s plans to strengthen the country’s sporting ecosystem and work towards hosting the 2036 Olympic Games during his Independence Day address from the Red Fort.
Sooryavanshi Celebrates India’s Cricket Legacy
Young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi shared an Independence Day message on X featuring a montage of some of India’s most memorable cricketing moments.
The video highlighted India’s major achievements, including the 1983 and 2011 Cricket World Cup victories, the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy win. The montage also featured iconic Indian cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.
Sooryavanshi’s post reflected the country’s rich cricketing legacy and the achievements that have inspired a new generation of Indian players.
Manu Bhaker Shares Patriotic Message
Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker also joined the Independence Day celebrations by sharing her picture with the Indian national flag and extending her greetings to citizens.
Bhaker has emerged as one of India’s leading shooting stars and has become an inspiration for young athletes across the country.
Sreejesh Says ‘Jai Hind’
Former Indian hockey goalkeeper and Olympic medallist PR Sreejesh shared a message highlighting India’s journey from its past achievements towards a stronger future.
“Proud of our past, committed to our future. Jai Hind!” Sreejesh wrote while wishing the nation on Independence Day.
PM Modi Announces Nationwide Sports Talent Hunt
During his Independence Day speech, PM Modi said India is preparing to strengthen its sporting capabilities ahead of its ambition to host the 2036 Olympics.
The Prime Minister announced a nationwide talent hunt for children aged five to 15, which will be conducted across villages, cities and schools. The objective is to identify young sporting talent, particularly in disciplines where India has limited participation or qualification at the Olympic level.
PM Modi said selected children would receive specialised training and be prepared to compete at the highest level.
India is also scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, another major opportunity to strengthen the country’s sporting infrastructure and identify future champions.
The government’s latest announcement places greater emphasis on grassroots sports development as India looks to build a stronger pipeline of athletes for major international competitions.
About the Author
