As India’s 67th Republic Day knocks on our doors, we are ready and eager to spend a day of celebrations, parades and patriotic vibes. But throughout the year, we keep complaining about problems & issues that plague India, seldom seeing the successes and triumphs this country has achieved. This year, we thought of flaunting our pride at our country’s most memorable achievements and reminding you once again why we should all be proud to be an Indian!
Cricket World Cup wins in 1983 & 2011
The Indian cricket team brought the prestigious World Cup home not once, but twice! The first win in 1983 under the captainship of Kapil Dev was epic and a proud moment for India for years to come. After years of perseverance, the Indian cricket team reclaimed the Cup in 2011 on its very own home ground in Mumbai, under the able leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Both the wins are close to the heart of the scores of cricket fans in India and a matter of national pride.
Launch of India’s first satellite in 1975
Named after an eminent Indian astronomer & mathematician, Aryabhata, India’s first satellite built by ISRO, was launched into space by the Soviet Union on 19th April 1975. It marked the coming-of-age of India’s space research facility and put us on the international space research map.
Miss World & Miss Universe in 1994
The year 1994 was an amazingly successful year for the Indian beauty pageant industry as both Miss India World & Miss India Universe bagged the international crowns in this year. The gorgeous Aiswarya Rai was crowned Miss World which catapulted her to instant fame, while the Bengali beauty Sushmita Sen’s iconic reaction when she was announced Miss Universe is still etched in the memories of all those who witnessed the event live on TV.
Nuclear tests in Pokhran in 1974
India’s first successful nuclear bomb tests were carried out in the district of Pokhran in Rajasthan on 18th May 1974. Carried out under the code name of Smiling Buddha, this was the first nuclear weapons test by a nation outside the members of the UNSC. In spite of opposition from many quarters, the Indian Government states that the test was only for peaceful purposes.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam as President
The 11th President of India was an eminent scientist, professor and author, apart from being one of India’s most popular politicians. Popularly known as the “People’s President”, Abdul Kalam inspired generations of Indians by his wisdom, knowledge & views. Receiver of many prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was an Indian we will forever be proud of.
Mangalyaan launch in 2013
Mangalyaan is our very own attempt at solving the mystery of Mars. This space probe, officially titled the Mars Orbiter Mission, was launched on 5th November 2013 by ISRO and have been orbiting the planet Mars since September 2014. India became the fourth nation to reach Mars and India’s first inter-planetary mission went on to become a proud achievement for the country.
Patriotism in Bollywood: Rang De Basanti
When Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra made Rang De Basanti with a group of eclectic actors, little did he (or they) know that this Bollywood movie will one day become synonymous with patriotism. Released in 2006, this movie soon took on the status of a cult film, thanks to its youth-centric storyline and compelling performances. Ten years down the line, this film is one that can be watched time & again and each time it’ll succeed in bringing out fresh, patriotic tears from your eyes.
Yuvraj Singh’s six sixes in one over
The most memorable moment in cricketer Yuvraj Singh’s career till date is the fateful day when he hit six consecutive sixes off English bowler Stuart Broad’s balls in South Africa. The Twenty20 match on 19th September 2007 gave Yuvi the chance to put his name down in the history of cricket with his stellar achievement which made the whole country proud.
So, let’s remember India’s success stories and feel patriotic each day. What else makes you feel proud as a citizen of this country? Share with us!
