Introduction: What is Independence Day & why is it celebrated

Independence Day is a day of pride and patriotism for India.
It is celebrated on 15 August every year to mark the end of British rule in 1947 and the birth of a free and sovereign nation.
India will celebrate its 77th Independence Day this year, marking 76 years of freedom and progress.

History: How did India achieve independence from the British rule

Independence Day is the result of a long and hard struggle of the Indian people against the British colonialism.
The Britishers exploited India’s resources and people for almost 200 years.
They denied Indians their basic rights and freedoms and divided them on the basis of religion, caste, and region.
The Indian people resisted the British rule through various movements and revolts led by brave and visionary leaders such as Subhash Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Rani Lakshmi Bai, Mangal Pandey, Dada Bhai Naoroji, Gandhi and many others. They used different strategies and methods such as non-violence, civil disobedience, armed rebellion, boycott, and mass mobilization to challenge the British authority and to awaken the masses to their rights and duties.

The Quit India Movement of 1942 was one of the most decisive phases of the freedom struggle. It was launched by Mahatma Gandhi with the slogan “Do or Die”. It aimed to force the Britishers to leave India immediately or face a mass uprising. The movement was met with brutal repression by the British forces, but it also inspired millions of Indians to join the cause of freedom.
The World War II also weakened the British empire and increased the international pressure on them to grant independence to India. The Indian National Army (INA) led by Subhash Chandra Bose also played a crucial role in challenging the British military might. The INA fought alongside the Japanese forces against the British in Southeast Asia.
Finally, on 15 August 1947, India attained independence from the British rule after the Indian Independence Act was passed by the British Parliament. The act partitioned India into two dominions: India and Pakistan. The act also granted complete legislative authority to the Constituent Assembly of India to frame a constitution for the country.

Independence Day is a Day to remember the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and the obligation we have as citizens to defend the values of liberty, democracy, and togetherness.
It is a day to reflect on our progress as a nation and to renew our commitment to our country’s development and well-being.

Independence Day is also a day to celebrate the diversity and richness of Indian culture, heritage, and achievements. India is a land of many languages, religions, ethnicities, and traditions that coexist peacefully and harmoniously. India has also made remarkable strides in various fields such as science, technology, education, sports, arts, and entertainment.
Independence Day is also a day to honour our national symbols such as our flag, anthem, emblem, song, animal, bird, flower, fruit, tree, river, sport, currency, calendar, constitution, pledge, awards, motto, etc. These symbols represent our identity and pride as Indians.

The Prime Minister of India will unfurl the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and deliver a speech to the nation.
There will be military parades and cultural performances in major cities across India.
Schools and colleges will hold special events to commemorate Independence Day.
People will hoist the national flag and sing patriotic songs.
Significance:

August 15, 1947 is the day when India gained independence from British rule.
The day is celebrated as a national holiday in India to commemorate this historic event.
It is a day to remember the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters who fought for India's independence.
It is also a day to renew our commitment to building a strong and prosperous India.

In addition to India, there are 4 other countries that celebrate Independence Day on August 15:

Republic of Congo: The Republic of Congo gained independence from France on August 15, 1960.
South Korea: South Korea gained independence from Japan on August 15, 1945.
North Korea: North Korea gained independence from Japan on August 15, 1945.
Liechtenstein: Liechtenstein gained independence from the Holy Roman Empire on August 15, 1806.

Jai Hind!