Aug 15, 2023

Journey To Freedom: 10 Lesser-Known Facts About Independence Day

NewsPoint

Midnight Declaration

India's independence was officially declared on the midnight of August 15th, 1947. Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India, delivered a memorable speech known as the "Tryst with Destiny" speech, marking the transition to self-governance.

Image Source: Toi

Mountbatten's Role

Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, played a crucial role in facilitating the transfer of power from British rule to Indian leaders. He is often credited with accelerating the process of independence.

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National Flag Adoption

The Indian national flag, with its saffron, white, and green stripes and the Ashoka Chakra in navy blue, was adopted as the official flag of independent India on this day in 1947.

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Postal Independence

The First Stamp of Independent India was issued on 21 November 1947. It depicts the Indian Flag with the patriots' slogan, Jai Hind, in the top right-hand corner. It was valued at three and one-half annas.

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Symbolic Celebrations

The Red Fort in Delhi has been the central venue for Independence Day celebrations since 1947. The Prime Minister hoists the national flag and addresses the nation from this historic location.

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Multilingual Anthem

The national anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana," written by Rabindranath Tagore, was officially adopted on January 24th, 1950. It was sung for the first time on Independence Day, which is August 15, 1947, when India gained independence from British rule.

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Changing Dates

Originally, August 15th was not the date envisioned for India's independence. The Indian National Congress had initially set January 26th as Independence Day. However, the date was later changed to August 15th due to various factors.

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Mahatma Gandhi's Absence

Surprisingly, Mahatma Gandhi did not attend the first Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. He believed that the day should be spent addressing communal issues and promoting unity among different religious groups.

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Global Observance

India's Independence Day is not only celebrated within the country but also among Indian communities across the world. The Indian diaspora commemorates this day with cultural events, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and patriotic fervor.

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Tribute To Sacrifices

Independence Day is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters who dedicated their lives to the cause of independence. It is a day to honor their memory and the resilience of the Indian people in their struggle for self-determination.

Image Source: Pixabay

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