India Independence Day

India Independence Day History

India Independence Day celebrates India's freedom from the British rule. This occasion marks the day India became a sovereign nation, highlighting its values of unity, peace, and progress. It serves as an opportunity to inspire patriotism and pride among Indians and pay tribute to the key leaders who contributed to their nation's struggle for independence. The day is marked by various local and national cultural events, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and speeches by prominent personalities.

The journey to India's independence began years before the culmination of events on August 15, 1947. Indians commemorate this day to honor the sacrifice and determination of countless freedom fighters who contributed to India's independence movement. These connections to India create a shared sense of history and heritage among Indian-Americans, linking the two countries together through a common understanding of democratic values and the people's right to self-governance.

India Independence Day is observed in America through cultural programs, community gatherings, and flag-hoisting ceremonies organized by Indian-Americans across the country. These events bring together Indian-Americans and others interested in Indian culture to promote broader awareness and appreciation of the rich traditions and history that India has to offer. These festivities celebrate the shared ideals of freedom and democracy while fostering a sense of unity and cultural pride amongst the Indian-American community. India Independence Day is observed annually on August 15th.

India Independence Day facts

• The partition of India led to a massive scale of orgies of communal violence, leaving more than a million dead and causing the migration of approximately 20 million people.
• Portugal was the last country to recognize India's Independence, in 1975, because it held onto a few Indian territories post-1947, like Goa, which it considered as Portuguese state.
• The Indian national flag is hoisted at the Red Fort in Delhi every year on this day by the Prime Minister of India, followed by a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts.
• With India’s independence in 1947 came a divide among the country. The Indian Independence Act divided India into two states, India and Pakistan. The division was based on district-wide Muslim populations. It was accompanied by violent riots and mass casualties. Nearly 15 million people were displaced.
• The first Prime Minister of India was Jawaharlal Nehru. On August 15th, 1947, he raised the Indian national flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi.
• India is one of the world’s oldest, largest, and continuous civilizations having been formed around 3300 B.C (the Indus Valley Civilization).

In the News and Trending in the US for India Independence Day

Top things to do in the US for India Independence Day

• Watch the annual broadcast celebrating Independence Day. The Prime Minister raises the Indian flag and gives an address to the nation. There are also parades and cultural events that are open to the public.
• Enjoy traditional Indian cuisines. Some popular dishes include Murgh Makhani (buttered chicken), Rogan Josh (red lamb), and Chole (chickpea curry).
• Watch a movie about the fight for Indian independence. Here are our suggestions:
  Rang De Basanti (2006)
  Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005)
  The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
• The Federation of Indian Associations in Chicago hosts a large parade and cultural festival, with traditional music, dance, and delicious Indian food.