Independence Day 2023: History, significance and how momentous occasion is celebrated

Independence Day or Swatantrata Diwas is observed annually on 15 August and is a national holiday in India. In 1947, on the same day, the country gained freedom from British colonisation after nearly 200 years. The day is observed with deep pride as it commemorates the heroic sacrifices made by several thousand freedom fighters and civilians alike.Independence Day celebrates the sacrifices made by the nation's freedom fighters in the struggle against colonialism. People remember the struggles that came with their freedom and vow to protect their country's hard-won independence.Independence Day: HistoryAt the Battle of Plassey in 1757, the British defeated the last Nawab of Bengal. A century later, in 1857, the First War of Independence, referred to as the Revolt of 1857, resulted in a major but unsuccessful uprising against British rule. India’s first political party, the Indian National Congress was founded in 1885. Indian activists joined the chorus for self-rule after World War I ended in 1918.Eleven years later, the Indian Parliament demanded ‘Purna Swaraj’ or Independence at a meeting in Lahore in 1929. It was followed by the Civil Disobedience Movement and other mass protests against colonial rule. But, it was a tough fight before the British gave in to the demand for India's freedom.Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel and Subhas Chandra Bose were among the prominent freedom fighters who fiercely opposed British rule. Gandhi advocated non-violent and non-cooperation strategies to tackle colonial oppression. In 1947, the British agreed to leave India. The decision came with a tragic consequence- the Partition. India gained freedom on 15 August 1947.Independence Day: SignificanceThe day celebrates the unfailing spirit of brotherhood and patriotism while marking peoples' unflinching efforts for the cause of independence. It was due to their efforts that the British Empire retreated ultimately.Independence Day: CelebrationThe celebrations of Independence Day start in advance. Major government buildings are illuminated with lights. The Indian tricolor flies high over homes and other institutions. The Indian public service broadcaster Doordarshan broadcasts films based on Indian freedom fighters' lives on television. Additionally, the President delivers an 'address to the nation' on the eve of Independence Day.On the occasion, the Prime Minister of India raises the Indian flag and delivers a speech at the Red Fort in Old Delhi. Schools and organisations across the country mark the day with flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs. Being a national holiday, many people spend the day with family and friends. After listening to the PM’s speech in the morning, they enjoy the day with a picnic in the park. They also attend patriotic movies released theatrically or have lunch or dinner at home or in a restaurant.