As freedom has acquired a new meaning amid all the pandemic, celebs tell us what makes them proud to be an Indian

Gurnaaz Kaur

As we mark the 75th year of Independence today, the sense of achievement and confidence continues to grow. The importance of hoisting Tricolour, parades by the Armed forces and other cultural events remain essential to this day. But a lot has changed too. This is our second year of living in the pandemic… and with its limitations and uncertainties, freedom has acquired an all-new meaning. This is what celebs have to say…

Never say die

Sakshi Gulati: One thing that stood out for me during this pandemic phase is the undying spirit of people. Going through so much pain and shocks, it’s the relentlessness with which people unknown to you come up to help you. Being a Covid warrior myself, I have had so many people reaching out to me in the time of need. The feeling of knowing that you are not alone has been a huge strength. It does restore your faith in the goodness of people, which is in abundance in our country.

We care deeply

Tisca Chopra: During the second wave when the country was fighting for oxygen and hospital beds, it was heart-warming to see how ordinary citizens rose to the occasion. We were working through social media groups and found our timelines flooded with regular people wanting to help with time, food, money and even plasma. The people of my country make me proud. We care deeply about others and despite our many problems, it’s the compassion of the common man that makes India such an attractive place.

Resilience is the word

Namit Das: To describe the people of my country, I think resilience is an appropriate word. We’ve gone through a tough period. People are fed up with these restrictions. But no matter what, the happiness quotient is intact. They might be slightly cynical and but I don’t see them depressed.

One nation, one people, one world

Vivek Anand Oberoi: The pandemic has been tough. In the face of this crisis, the selfless service provided by the frontline workers is something that needs to be saluted. Every Indian has given their 200 per cent to help out their brothers and sisters in need. I am proud that the worst of times have brought out the best of us!

Kindness in the air

Shriya Pilgoankar: The one thing that really made me proud is the way citizens of the country from different parts of India really came together to take responsibility for one another, to assist—be it distributing food or creating awareness or putting out SOS calls, trying to get beds for people or finding medical assistance. There was kindness in the air.

The jazba is alive

Divya Dutta: I think what I’m supremely proud of is the jazba that we have as Indians; and how we stand in unity. This lockdown will be remembered by everyone because of the loss of lives of dear ones. But what came to the forefront was the unity among people. Everybody helped the other person as much as they could. Be it medical or financial help, providing food, making groups on social media, they were out there to do everything. This spirit of oneness is beautiful and I am overwhelmed that we as citizens of this country stand by each other through thick and thin.