Ishould be one of the proudest Indians in our country. I say so because it is only because of Indians that I became 'Sony Indian Idol'.

For me loving one's own country is like loving one's own mother. Our country is like our mother. I feel every Indian must feel proud to be an Indian.

Since I am a singer, there are two songs that really move my heart on this occasion -- 'Kar Chale Hum Fida' sung by Mohammad Rafi for the film Haqeeqat, and 'Mera Rang De Basanti Chola' which Sonu Nigam sang. The song was first sung for the film Shaheed Bhagat Singh.

For us Independence Day signifies the fact that we gained our freedom from slavery and began as a new nation.

August 15 is one of the happiest days of my life since we Indians were liberated that day. In my opinion every Indian must realise the importance of this day.

We all must remember the sacrifices our countrymen made to make us free. It is important for us to understand the pains they underwent to fight against the colonial British rule. We should salute and recall their bravery and sacrifices.