Tendulkar, Kohli greet nation on 68th Republic Day

As India celebrates its 68th Republic Day today, the sporting fraternity has come in unison to wish the nation.

Calling on his countrymen to emerge stronger and better with each passing year, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar tweeted, "Every #RepublicDay it's our responsibility to emerge stronger, better & more progressive as a nation. Do your bit. Jai Hind!"

Indian boxing sensation Vijender Singh said that he would like to see each of his countrymen be able to contribute a bit for their motherland.

"Bharat Mata Ki Jai!..Wishing all my countrymen a very happy #RepublicDay .May we all be able to do our bit for our motherland," the 31-year-old boxer tweeted.

Posting a picture of him wishing the nation on the occasion, newly-appointed limited-overs skipper Virat Kohli said, "Happy Republic Day everyone. More power to all out there to make a positive change around you. Jai Hind #MeraBharatMahan."

"One nation. One dream. One India. 68 million reasons why we are #ProudToBeIndian! Happy 68th #RepublicDay!," veteran batsman Gautam Gambhir tweeted.

Describing India as a 'magnificent' country, former Australian opener Matthew Hayden said that he felt really proud to be so connected with the nation both in sport and life.

Former opener Virender Sehwag tweeted, "Happy 68th #RepublicDay And Salute to the brave soldiers of India! Jai Hind! #HappyRepublicDay."

Indian batsman Suresh Raina, all-rounder Hardik Pandya and former cricketer Mohammad Kaif were among others to wish the nation on its 68th Republic day.

On the occasion, the security personnel from India and Pakistan exchanged sweets at Wagah Border.The exchange of sweets also took place between border guards at Indo-Bangladesh border. The aim behind this symbolic gesture is to assure peace on the border between India and its neighbours.

Earlier today, President Pranab Mukherjee unfurled the Tricolour at Rajpath on the occasion.The President also posthumously awarded Ashok Chakra to Havildar Hangpan Dada who died in Kupwara on May 27 after killing three terrorists. The award was received by his wife Chasen Lowang Dada.

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is the guest of honour of the occasion and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were also present there.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and three service chiefs paid tribute at Amar Jawan Jyoti.