India has been ruled by the Britishers for around 200 years. The journey to Independence wasn’t easy at all, many freedom fighters had to sacrifice their lives for it. Hence, Independence day plays an important role in every Indian’s life in this modern era. After a very long and tiring journey, India gained its Independence officially on 15th August 1947. On that day, the first Prime Minister of India – Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the Indian National flag over the Red Fort in Delhi. After which he addressed the gathering and this tradition continues to date.

How India Celebrates Its Independence Day.

On the day of Independence, which is a public holiday, people are found watching the parade either on Television or at any Independence Day event that commences nearby them. All the buildings and malls are found to be covered with the lights of tricolors and colonies are well decorated, and children are found roaming around with flags in their hands.

Although Independence Day is celebrated all over India, Delhi – which is the nation’s capital, serves as the political center and staging area for Independence day events.

On this day, in Delhi, the President of India addresses the nation from his office which is broadcast all over the country. Citizens never miss watching the patriotic parade and the event on television.

The celebration starts when the Prime Minister of India arrives and receives a general salute from the guard of honor. The guard of honor consists of the three wings of the Indian armed forces, which are the army, navy, and airforce, along with the Delhi police.

The main event kicks off with flag hoisting by the Prime Minister along with 21 honorary gunshots which are followed by a rendition of the National Anthem – Jana Gana Mana. After which the Prime Minister addresses the nation, reminding the struggle of the people during the fight for Independence. The speech of the Prime Minister ends with a note on the future of the country.

Similarly, the events are organized all over the country, which includes the unfurling of the flag by the Chief Minister of each state while the National Anthem is being sung. Also, government and non-government institutions, schools, and also at some housing societies, the National flag is hoisted and other cultural programs are conducted.

In some central cities of India and also in some of the Northern states, people are found flying kites of different shapes and sizes but all of them are of tricolor, which resembles the spirit of freedom and joy. Kite flying is done either for fun or as a competition.

Kite flying has been a tradition since 1927 when the freedom fighters and Indian Revolutionaries flew kites with the slogan “Go Back Simon”, which marked their protest against British rule.

On this day, at Amritsar’s Wagah border, we get to see a special Beating Retreat ceremony. The ceremony includes the closing of the gate, sword fighting, cultural dances, and a parade.

Since it is a national holiday on this day, we find people celebrating the day with their friends and family and also spending some time with their loved ones.

As we have reached the end of this article. We have studied all about independence day and how it is celebrated across India. Let us know your view on this in the comments below.