Independence Day in India is a national holiday that is celebrated every August 15. Independence Day commemorates the end of British rule in 1947, and the establishment of an independent Indian nation. It marks also the anniversary of the divisionof the subcontinent into two nations, India and Pakistan. This occurred at midnight on August 14, 15 and 15, 1947. In Pakistan, Independence Day is observed on August 14.Find out more about India’s Independence Day celebrations. Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. Check out all videos related to this article
In 1757, British rule began in India. This was after the victory of the British at the Battle of Plassey. The English East India Company took control of the country. After the Indian Mutiny of 1857-58, the East India Company ruled India 100 years. The Indian independence movement was started during World War I. It was led by Mohandas K. Gandhi who advocated peaceful and nonviolent ending to British rule.This Day in History Quiz August 15What do you know about August 15, 2015? Take this quiz to find out.
India celebrates Independence Day with drills, flag-raising ceremonies and singing the Indian national song. In the capitals of each state, there are also cultural programs. A parade follows after the prime Minister takes part in the flag-raising ceremony at Old Delhi’s Red Fort historical monument. The prime minister delivers a televised address, highlighting the achievements of India in the past year and identifying future challenges and goals. Kite flying is a tradition on Independence Day. There are many different sizes and shapes of kites that can be seen in the sky. To celebrate Independence Day, the government offices in New Delhi are lit during the holiday.
Every August 15, India celebrates Independence Day to remember its liberation from British rule in 1947. India was the largest democracy in the world after 1947’s passing of the Indian Independence Act by the UK Parliament. This law transferred legislative power to the Indian Constituent Assembly.
The Independence Day marks the anniversary of undivided India being divided into India and Pakistan.Jawaharlal Naehru, then the Prime Minister of India, stated in his speech ‘Tryst with destiny” that India would awaken to freedom and life at the stroke of midnight.
What happens to Independence Day?
Each year, the Prime Minister (India) raises the Indian national flag at Delhi’s Red Fort. He then makes an address to India, which is followed each year by a military parade. The ‘address of the nation’ speech is also delivered by the President of India. Twenty-one guns are fired in honor of the occasion.
India observes this day as a national holiday, and all offices, banks, and post offices remain closed. Independence Day is celebrated in India with parades, flag-raising ceremonies and cultural events.
Preparations for Independence Day begin a month ahead. Schools and colleges organize cultural events, contests, debates and speeches.
Background for the Independence Day
India’s struggle to become independent began in 1857 with the Sepoy Mutiny at Meerut. It gained momentum following the First World War. The Indian National Congress (INC), along with other political organizations, launched a nation-wide rebellion against British oppression in 20th century under Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership.
The Quit India Movement was launched by the Indian Congress during the Second World War in 422. It demanded an end to British rule. This prompted colonial rulers to detain many nationalists and campaigners as well as Gandhi.
Religious violence was a major factor in the violent riots and mass casualties that occurred during India’s partition in 1947.
