Independence Day 2019: India Celebrates Its 73rd Independence Day; Know History and Significance of 15th of August Celebrations
Independence Day is a gazetted holiday and celebrations are held annually to remember the India's freedom struggle. On this day, people in India pay homage to their leaders and those who fought for the freedom of the country.
This year, the nation will celebrate its 73rd Independence Day on August 15. On this day in 1947, India got freedom from the British rule after years of slavery. This means the special day marks the end of British rule in 1947 and the establishment of a free and independent Indian nation. The day, which is a national holiday, also marks the anniversary of the partition of the subcontinent into two countries, India and Pakistan. The day is a gazetted holiday and celebrations are held annually to remember the historic day. On this day, people in India pay homage to the brave leaders who fought for the freedom of the country. Independence Day 2019: From Jawaharlal Nehru to Narendra Modi, Five Remarkable August 15 Speeches by Prime Ministers of India (Watch Videos).
Independence Day is observed throughout India with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades and cultural events. Celebrations are held across the nation with major government buildings being illuminated in tricolour lights. Strings of lights and the tricolour flutters are seen, showcasing love for the nation. On this day, television channels show the sacrifices of the brave leaders and movies showing freedom fighters. Independence Day 2019 Decoration Ideas For Schools and Classrooms.
History of Indian Independence Day
Independence Day in India is an important day in the history of the nation as India got independence from British rule and became a sovereign nation. The British rule in India began in 1757 when, after which the British victory at the Battle of Plassey, the English East India Company began exercising control over the country. This means the European traders had established outposts in the Indian subcontinent by the 17th century. After the First War of Independence of 1857, the Government of India Act 1858 led the British Crown to assume direct control of India.
India was ruled by the East India Company for 100 years, until it was replaced by the British crown amid the Indian Mutiny in 1857–58. The freedom movement for India’s independence began during World War I and was led by Mahatma Gandhi, who advocated for a peaceful and nonviolent end to British rule. The participation of India in World War II, the Congress' final push for non-cooperation, and an upsurge of Muslim nationalism led by the All-India Muslim League gave the freedom movement a momentum. The escalating political tension was capped by Independence in 1947. The jubilation was tempered by the bloody partition of the subcontinent into India and Pakistan.
On 15 August 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, raised the Indian national flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi. On each Independence Day thereon, the Prime Minister customarily raises the flag and addresses the nation.
Significance
The special day is commemorated to celebrate India’s freedom from the British rule. The day marks the end of British rule and celebrates the free and independent Indian nation. On 15 August, the Prime Minister hoists the Indian flag on the ramparts of the historical site of Red Fort in Delhi. Similar events take place in state capitals where the Chief Ministers of individual states unfurl the national flag and several events are held. It must be noted that until 1973, the Governor of the State hoisted the National Flag at the State capital.
On this day, flag hoisting ceremonies and several cultural events are held in governmental and non-governmental institutions throughout the nation. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. On this day tributes are paid to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to gain the freedom for India. On this historic day, Indians proudly fly their tricolor Flag, sing patriotic songs like "Vande Mataram", "Jan Gan Man" etc. and enjoy the day with their friends and families. We, at LatestLY, wish you a very happy Independence Day in advance!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 10, 2019 05:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).