Independence Day of India, 15 August 2021: History, Significance, Facts and Celebration

India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947. As India freed herself from the clutches of the British empire, the whole country roared in happiness, marking the reign of an independent and free land, away from the terror rule of the 200-year British rule.

Fearless Patriots led the freedom struggle which went on to be written within the deep trenches of history. On the occasion of this patriotic day, let’s know more about the history, significance, facts, and how this day is celebrated in India and across the world.

History of India’s Independence Day

Jawaharlal Nehru declared India’s independence on August 15, 1947, and swore in as the 1st Indian Prime Minister. The British House of Commons passed the Indian Independence Bill on July 4, 1947, and it was passed within a fortnight. This was a major part of the process that led India to her victory. Freedom fighters and patriots like Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Rani Lakshmi Bai, and many more lead the common people with their belief and determination to win independence.

Significance of India's Independence Day

This day is a remembrance and dedication to all those people who gave their lives, mind, body, and soul to free India. Countless lives were lost and many were tortured but with immense determination and faith, Indian rose as a free country. On this day, India’s tricolour flag was hoisted above the Lahori Gate of Red Fort in Delhi on August 15, 1947. To this day, every year the Prime Minister hoists the flag and commemorates the occasion by a traditional ceremony in Delhi, India’s capital. After the Prime Minister addresses the nation, a military parade is held that is broadcasted all over the country. The President also delivers a speech.

Facts about India's Independence Day

  • Jawaharlal Nehru’s first speech on Independence Day began with, “At the stroke of midnight, when the world sleeps, India shall awake to life and freedom...”
  • Rabindranath Tagore composed ‘Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata’ which then later was renamed ‘Jana Gana Mana’ and was adopted as the national anthem by the Constituent Assembly of India.
  • The Indian flag is only manufactured and supplied from The Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha (KKGSS), located in Dharwad in Karnataka. It has the sole authority to manufacture and supply the Indian national flag and the flag is hand-spun and handwoven cotton khadi wafting.
SOURCE: TIMESOFINDIA.COM