How Many Nations Don’t Have an Independence Day? See the Full List!

Independence Day is a proud highlight in many countries’ calendars, marking the day they broke free from foreign rule. For India, 15 August 2025 is extra special it’s the 79th Independence Day, celebrating 79 years since the country gained freedom from British colonialism in 1947.

The Day India Woke Up to Freedom

At the stroke of midnight on 15 August 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech welcomed a new era. But the joy of independence came alongside the pain of Partition, which split India and Pakistan, triggering mass migration and violence.

The Grand Celebration at Red Fort

Every year, the Prime Minister hoists the tricolour at Delhi’s Red Fort, followed by a 21-gun salute and an inspiring address to the nation. The day is filled with parades, cultural shows, and a display of India’s unity and strength.


What the Tricolour Stands For:

Saffron: Courage & sacrifice
White: Peace & truth
Green: Prosperity & faith
Ashoka Chakra: Progress & righteousness

Safety, Spectacle & Global Spirit

In 2025, the celebrations will see multi-layered security, with drones and surveillance safeguarding events in major cities. Around the world, Indian embassies will host flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and community gatherings.

The Struggle That Made It Possible

India’s freedom was the result of decades of resistance from the Revolt of 1857 to the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) and Quit India Movement (1942) led by countless known and unsung heroes.

Countries That Don’t Celebrate Independence Day

Here’s a twist not every nation has an Independence Day. Countries like the UK, Nepal, Japan, and Saudi Arabia never experienced colonisation, gained sovereignty gradually, or still remain linked to another governing power. Instead, they mark other occasions like national unity days or foundation anniversaries.

Some Nations Without Independence Day:

Nepal, Thailand, Japan, China, France, Spain, Russia, United Kingdom, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, Norway, Iceland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Greenland, Iran.

Why It Matters

For India, Independence Day is more than a holiday it’s a reminder of the sacrifices, courage, and unity that built the nation. For those without such a day, national pride takes other forms, proving that history shapes celebration in its own unique way.