Celebs talk Independence Day
Natasha Coutinho/Hill Road Media
As we gear up for Independence Day, popular STAR One actors share their views on issues affecting the country. Also check out how they fared in a fun general knowledge quiz!
SHOWING 4 OF 5 IMAGES
DEV AKA SAMIR SHARMA
What was the most shocking news you have come across in recent times?
The whole series of scams - right from the 3G to the CWG scam - shows the rot in the government. The more shocking part was that the people who were involved have got away with it.
Which civic issue needs immediate attention?
In Mumbai, it is definitely the roads that need immediate attention. They are in a pathetic condition, and the common man is suffering due to it.
Which current political leader has the charisma to lead India in the future?
I used to have faith in Dr. Manmohan Singh, but after the allegations that have emerged against him, I have lost trust in all politicians.
What do you feel regarding the underdevelopment of our country?
I feel that all the money from the country is going into the Swiss bank accounts of politicians. The thousands of crores meant for development of the poor are going into the pockets of politicians.
Where would you ideally like to see India in the next 10 years?
I would like to see a cleaner government in the next 10 years. The government should be purged of all corruption.
Do you think it is achievable, given the current state of affairs?
You never know! It could happen.
Do you think the current generation is taking independence for granted?
There are some who are taking independence for granted, but there are others who are speaking out and taking the initiative to make a change.
What would be the one advice you would like to give the politicians of our country?
Please wake up and do something for the betterment of the country.
Quiz on India's Independence Day
How many years has it been since India's Independence?
64 years
Who was the last governor when we got Independence?
Lord Mountbatten
Who gives a speech every Independence day & where?
The Prime Minister at Red Fort
Which year did we get our Independence?
1947
Who is our current prime minister?
Dr. Manmohan Singh
Who is our current president?
Mrs. Pratibha Patil
Result: 6/6
What was the most shocking news you have come across in recent times?
The bomb blasts that took place in Mumbai were truly shocking.
There are innumerable civic issues that need attention, but I feel that it is not just the responsibility of the government. Even the citizens should do something about them.
It's the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ashok Chavan.
I do not feel that our country is underdeveloped. If we ignore the scams, we can see how developed our country actually is. Even beggars on the road make so much money, but they still continue to beg, because they are getting easy money.
I would like to see India scam-free and not wasting 200 crores on building statues of politicians.
Yes it is, if we work towards it.
Yes. I have a teenage sister at home, and I am happy that she is not into vices like smoking and drinking. Just yesterday, I was at the sea link and I was horrified on seeing the way some youngsters were driving. They don't care about their future, and just want to enjoy the present, whatever be the consequences.
Do whatever you can for the country with honesty.
How many years has it been since India's Independence?
65 years
Who was the last governor when we got Independence?
I don't know
Who gives a speech every Independence day & where?
The Prime Minister at Red Fort
Which year did we get our Independence?
1947
Who is our current prime minister?
Dr. Manmohan Singh
Who is our current president?
Mrs. Pratibha Patil
11