Independence Day: 15 August 

Independence Day 

Every year on August 15, India celebrates Independence Day as a public holiday honouring the day on which the country gained its independence from the United Kingdom on August 15, 1947, marking the implementation of the Indian Independence Act's provisions, which gave the Indian Constituent Assembly legislative sovereignty. 

Until its transition to a republic on January 26, 1950 (celebrated as Indian Republic Day), when the sovereign law Constitution of India replaced the dominion prefix, Dominion of India, the country of India continued to be led by King George VI. 

India became independent after the Indian National Congress, led by Mahatma Gandhi, adopted these values from one of the early Indian movements led by Ram Singh Kuka (quoted in a letter by Shaheed Bhagat Singh referring to Guru Ram Singh as his Dada Guru). This movement was notable for its mostly non-violent resistance and civil disobedience. 

The division of British India into the Dominions of India and Pakistan [2] and the subsequent violent riots and large casualties, as well as the displacement of approximately 15 million people as a result of religious conflict, occurred concurrently with independence. Jawaharlal Nehru, the country's first prime minister, hoisted the Indian flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi on August 15, 1947. Every Independence Day after that, the prime minister in office traditionally hoists the flag and addresses the people. [3] India's national channel, Doordarshan, telecasts the full event. Ustad Bismillah Khan's shehnai music typically opens the show. India celebrates Independence Day with parades, flag-hosting rituals, and cultural events. It is a national holiday. 

Independence Day is more than just a date; it's a significant event that heralds the end of colonial rule and the beginning of self-government. It represents the victory of equality and justice as well as the unwavering spirit of our ancestors who toiled ceaselessly to secure our freedom. This day unites and celebrates our common history and national identity, encouraging patriotism among the populace.

Numerous initiatives are organized by towns, colleges, and schools across the country. These consist of speeches that promote patriotism, cultural events, and flag-hooping ceremonies. Patriotic shows, dances, and songs that narrate the stories of the freedom struggle fill the air.

Independence Day is more than simply a day on the calendar; it's a time to celebrate freedom, think back on the past, and remember the many people who gave their lives to defend the freedoms we take for granted today. We are reminded of the ideals and values that our country upholds each year when we raise the flag and play the national song. This blog explores the meaning of Independence Day, its background, the various celebrations, and the value of thinking back on development and unity.

𝙃𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙭𝙩

The journey to independence was long and arduous. It was paved by the relentless efforts of liberation warriors, the eloquence of leaders, and the solidarity of the common people. From the campaigns for civil disobedience and non-cooperation to the Quit India movement, the path was characterized by significant events. Every one of these turning points was essential in igniting popular anger and forcing the British colonial authorities to cede power

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙤𝙢:

The War for Liberation

After the Indian National Congress was established in 1885, the late 19th-century independence movement got underway in earnest. Moderate calls for further administrative reforms and self-governance were hallmarks of the early freedom movement. But the British response was mostly indifferent, which prompted a more extreme strategy in the early 20th century.

More forceful approaches were promoted by leaders such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal, collectively referred to as the Lal-Bal-Pal trinity. "Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it," was Tilak's catchphrase that struck a chord with the public and inspired a sense of urgency and resolve.

𝙉𝙤𝙣- 𝘾𝙤𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙡 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙗𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚: 

The freedom movement took a dramatic turn when Mahatma Gandhi came into the picture. His ideas of peaceful resistance and civic disobedience inspired millions. The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922) pushed Indians to boycott British goods and withdraw from British institutions. Even though the violent incident at Chauri Chaura finally forced its cancellation, it demonstrated the power of public mobilization.

The Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–1934), symbolised by the Salt March, intensified the conflict. Gandhi's 240-mile march, which he carried out to create salt along the Arabian Sea against British regulations, garnered notice worldwide and illustrated the harshness of colonial rule.

𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙩 𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙖 𝙈𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩: 

The last and most severe stage of the liberation movement was the Quit India Movement of 1942. With the slogan "Do or die," Gandhi led the campaign to demand an end to British rule. Mass arrests and repression were part of the rapid and ruthless British response. Nonetheless, the movement had a huge effect, severely undermining British rule and demonstrating to India that it would no longer tolerate colonial rule.

Festivities All Around the 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮: 

Everywhere in the nation, people celebrate Independence Day with great enthusiasm. The primary celebration is held in the nation's capital, where the prime minister raises the national flag at the Red Fort and gives a speech summarizing the country's accomplishments and laying out its future objectives. A parade displaying the nation's military might and cultural diversity takes place after this event.

Numerous programs are arranged in towns, colleges, and schools. These consist of speeches, cultural events, and flag-hooping rituals. Patriotic plays, dance routines, and songs that highlight the freedom struggle are also held on this day.

Raising the Flag and 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙨:

One of the main events of Independence Day celebrations is the flag hoisting ceremony. The national anthem is proudly sung, and the tricolor is unfurled. The Prime Minister's speech from the Red Fort is an important occasion because it considers the nation's accomplishments and goals for the future. A parade featuring military prowess demonstrations, regional dancing styles, and tableaus depicting many states comes next.

 Cultural 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨: 

To celebrate, schools and colleges host a variety of cultural events. These include doing traditional dances, putting on plays that portray historical events, and singing patriotic songs. These exercises remind young people of the sacrifices made by their predecessors and develop in them a sense of pride and patriotism.

Considering Unity and Advancement: 

On Independence Day, we should not only reflect on the past but also look to the future. It's an opportunity to take stock of our progress and recognize the work that remains. It's a day to reaffirm our dedication to creating a country that promotes justice, equality, and advancement.

The unification that Independence Day fosters is its fundamental quality. Despite our differences, we are all together on this day as one country under one flag. It serves as a reminder of the value of harmony in the face of variety and the power that comes from sticking together.

Advancement and Difficulties: 

The country has advanced significantly in a number of areas since attaining independence, including infrastructure, education, and science and technology. But a lot of issues still exist, like social inequality, poverty, and corruption. On this Independence Day, let's take a moment to consider these problems and to pledge once more to solve them.

Harmony Among Differences:

India is renowned for the diversity of its languages, cultures, and religions. The strength derived from diversity is emphasized on Independence Day. It's a day to honor our common history and make a commitment to promoting harmony and understanding among all citizens.

Recognizing the Silent Heroes:

In addition to paying tribute to the prominent members of the independence struggle, we should also recognize the unsung heroes who made equally vital contributions. These include the innumerable men and women who, frequently at considerable personal risk, took part in boycotts, strikes, and protests. The freedom we value today was made possible by their bravery and commitment.

Women in the Battle for Freedom:

Women's contributions to the liberation fight are frequently overlooked. Prominent individuals such as Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, and Aruna Asaf Ali were instrumental in galvanizing backing and spearheading demonstrations. Thousands of anonymous women marched, risked jail time, and gave up a great deal for the cause.

The Common People's Contribution: 

Not only did well-known figures participate in the freedom struggle, but common people from all walks of life did as well. The movement included contributions from merchants, laborers, farmers, and students. Their combined sacrifices and efforts were crucial to the country's freedom.

𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣: 

Let's pause on this Independence Day to commemorate the history, enjoy the present, and look forward to the future. Let us commit to defending the principles of justice, freedom, and unification as we seek to build a wealthy, progressive, and inclusive country for all of its people.

Independence Day serves as a reminder of the strength of teamwork and the value of being unified in the face of adversity. Today is a day to celebrate our heritage with pride and to make a commitment to creating a brighter future for future generations. 

Freedom is never dear at any price. It is the breath

Mahatma Gandhi 

of life. What would a man not pay for living?

                             -Mahatma Gandhi

Let us honor the sacrifices made by our ancestors and co-operate to turn our country into a global symbol of freedom, hope, and harmony.