Celebrating Independence Day

K R Biotra

Independence Day Independence Day is celebrated annually on 15 August as a Public Holiday in India, commemorating the nation's independence from the United Kingdom on 15 August 1947. On this gala day of Indian history, the Indian Independence Act, 1947 came into effect, transferring legislative sovereignty to the Indian Constituent Assembly. India attained independence by following the Independence Movement, noted for non-violent movements, resistance and civil disobedience, led by the Indian National Congress under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. The period after the First World War was marked by colonial reforms, but it also witnessed the enactment of the unpopular Rowlatt Act. It called for self-rule by Indian activists. The discontent of this period crystallised into nationwide non-violent movements of Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience, led by Mahatma Gandhi. During the 1930s, and in the period of World War II, Congress finally pushed for non-cooperation. The escalating political tensions were capped by independence in 1947.

The jubilation was tempered by the bloody partition into India and Pakistan. The Indian Rebellion of 1857, led by the Indians, proved a failure, and the East India Company, with the Indian Act of 1858, assumed its direct control over India. With the passage of time, many civic societies gradually emerged, with the Indian National Congress being formed in 1885. On the eve of Independence Day, the President of India delivers the "Address to the Nation". The Prime Minister hoists the Indian flag on the historic Red Fort in Delhi. The Indian National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana" is sung. The speech is followed by a march-past of divisions of the Indian Armed Forces and paramilitary forces.

Parades and pageants show scenes of the independence struggle and India's diverse cultural traditions. This year, as India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, the celebrations will have a special significance as the nation marks 150 years of "Vande Mataram" . For the first time, "Vande Mataram" will be sung from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort upon the Prime Minister's arrival. The National Song, which inspired generations during the freedom struggle, will thus form a prominent part of this year's Independence Day celebrations. Similar events take place in state capitals, where Chief Ministers unfurl the flag, followed by marches and folk performances. Flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural programmes take place in government places, non-governmental institutions, schools, colleges, etc., throughout the country. Celebrating the 80th Independence Day is a golden day in the history of India. May this Independence Day bring happiness, peace and prosperity for all of us.