Independence Day in India: History and Why is it celebrated

Introduction

Have you ever thought on August 15 why we celebrate Independence Day in India? While most of us do know the importance of the day, we often need to remember the significance that this day holds. It was on August 15 that India acquired its long-lost freedom from the British Empire. To know about this day is not just the duty of every citizen but also the right we carry. If you have yet to learn more about Independence Day, then here is everything you need to know about how Independence Day is celebrated in India.

Historical background of Independence Day 

When we look at the historical background of Independence Day, it is seen that after years of bondage and slavery under the British Empire, India finally got its Independence in 1947 on August 15. This was successful only after the Independence movement, which was conducted by Mahatma Gandhi, along with his message of nonviolent resistance. In this selfless effort were a lot of people involved, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Subash Chandra Bose, Lala Lajpat Rai, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, Rani Lakshmi Bai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Dr B.R. Ambedkar. There were a lot of sacrifices that needed to be made to attain freedom from British rule because they immensely loved their country and cared for all of the people in it.

The key events that led to Independence Day can be provided as follows:

• Revolt of 1857
• Establishing the Indian National Congress in 1885
• 1915: Return of Mahatma Gandhi to India
• Lucknow Pact of 1916
• 1917: The Champaran Satyagraha
• Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
• Non-Cooperation Movement
• Return of Subhash Chandra Bose to India
• Purna Swaraj on January 26, 1930
• The Dandi March of 1930
• Government of India Act of 1935
• Creation of the Indian National Army
• Quit India Movement of 1942
• Royal Navy Strike of 1946
• Partition of India and the Independence of the country in 1947

Key Figures in India’s Independence Movement

Indian Independence Day wouldn’t have been a success without the key figures leading the nation’s people to unity and fighting against injustice. Here are a few of the key figures who have played a significant role, especially considering the significance of August 15.

Mahatma Gandhi’s Role 

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the ‘Father of the Nation,’ was one of the most prominent leaders of the Indian Independence Movement. He advocated for Satyagraha, which also means nonviolent resistance, as a means to gain Independence from British rule. This philosophy of civil obedience and nonviolence influenced many other political leaders worldwide. Gandhi also led several nationwide campaigns against British rule, including the Quit India Movement and the Dandi March.

Contributions of Jawaharlal Nehru 

Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India and played an equally important role in India’s Independence. He was an important figure in politics both before and after Independence. He was a close associate of Gandhi and played a significant role in enforcing the Indian National Congress as a political force.

Role of Subhas Chandra Bose 

Subhas Chandra Bose, also known as Netaji, was a very significant figure in the Indian Independence movement. He was a radical nationalist who tried his best with the armed forces to achieve Independence. Bose led the INA against the British during World War 2. While it was not successful, it led to many Indians wanting freedom.

Other Important Freedom Fighters

Other notable freedom fighters include Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Dr Rajendra Prasad, Bhagat Singh, Rani Laxmi Bai, Mangal Pandey, Annie Beasant, and many others. All of them, with their courage, fought for one single goal: Independence.

The Significance of August 15, 1947

The Indian Independence Act was ruled on August 15, 1947, by the UK Parliament. Judicial sovereignty was passed over to the Indian Constituent Assembly. King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II, continued to rule the state until the country was transmitted to a complete Republican constitution. It was under Mahatma Gandhi that all freedom fighters struggled to attain freedom.

How is Independence Day celebrated in India

Every year, Independence Day is celebrated with grand celebrations. The day is considered a national holiday and is a day when people hoist the flags and sing the Indian national anthem.

National Flag Hoisting 

Every year, the Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian national flag at Delhi’s Red Fort. This flag hoisting indicates the freedom we attained through various years of struggle.

Parades and Cultural Programs 

Parades are conducted, and twenty-one gunshots are fired in respect to the martyrs. Schools take this occasion to spread awareness about Independence Day via cultural programs such as debates, dances, speeches, drama, etc.

Speeches and Addresses 

The Prime Minister’s speech addresses India and conveys a message to remember the day we fought for our freedom.

Facts about Independence Day

Here are some of the lesser-known facts about India’s Independence Day:

• India did not have its Indian national anthem at the time of its Independence.
• Mahatma Gandhi could not attend the first Indian Independence Day celebrations in Delhi
• Hindi was adopted as the official language on September 14, 1949.
• The date August 15 was given as the date of Independence for both India and Pakistan
• The first unofficial flag hoisting was conducted on August 7, 1906, at Parsee Bagan Square in Calcutta.
• In 1904, India’s first national flag was designed by Sister Nivedita, who was a disciple of Swami Vivekananda.

Conclusion

All in all, India and its Independence Day hold deep roots, especially when we see how hard freedom fighters have struggled for freedom. The day also consists of various events, such as the army march past and the showcase of cultural talents, traditions, and specialities of each part of India. With this, India shows how important Independence Day is to them.  

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