Indian Independence Day

Held on : 15th August

Indian Independence Day is celebrated on August 15 to commemorate its independence from British rule and its birth as a sovereign nation on that day in 1947. On 3 June 1947, Viscount Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last British Governor-General of India, announced the partitioning of the British Indian Empire into India and Pakistan, under the provisions of the Indian Independence Act 1947. At the stroke of midnight, on 14 August 1947, India became an independent nation. This was preceded by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's famous speech titled Tryst with Destiny.

On this day various celebrations take place. All Government Offices are decorated with lights. Flag-hoisting ceremonies are conducted all over the country both by the government and private administrations. All state capitals have their separate Flag Hoisting ceremonies headed by the heads of the state. The main event takes place in New Delhi, where the Prime Minister hoists the National Flag at the Red Fort and delivers a nationally televised speech. In his speech, he highlights the achievements of his government during the past year, raises important issues and gives a call for further development. The Prime Minister also pays his tribute to leaders of the freedom struggle. A colourful ceremony follows which showcases India’s cultural diversity, advancements in science and technology and a joint display of India’s Armed Forces form an essential part of the Independence Day celebrations.

Schools and colleges around the country organise flag hoisting ceremonies and various cultural events, where younger children in costume do impersonations of their favourite characters of the Independence era. Families and friends get together for lunch or dinner, or for an outing. Housing colonies, cultural centres, clubs and societies hold entertainment programmes and competitions, usually based on the Independence Day theme. Most national and regional television channels screen old and new film classics with patriotic themes on Independence Day.

Holiday Staus - It is a National Holiday