Independence Day 2025: As India enters its 79th year of Independence, it is crucial to remember that the freedom struggle was a journey filled with hardships, leading to bloodshed and sacrifice. India's independence was originally slated for June 30, 1948, but was delayed to Aug. 15, 1947. What were the circumstances that led to this decision? Here's what happened.
Demand For Purna Swaraj
The resolution of Purna Swaraj demanded in 1929 after a discussion between India's Viceroy Lord Irwin and its delegates Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Jawaharlal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, and Tej Bahadur Sapru was rejected.
British officials were only ready to grand a 'dominion status' to India which forced them to blatantly reject the same. Following the resolution, up until 1947, India celebrated its independence on Jan. 26, 1930.
Day Of Glory
Looking at the bloodshed and to minimise it from happening further, Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India planned to transfer his power to India on June 30, 1948. But India denied to accept the much delayed freedom.
India's denial forced Lord Mountbatten to shift the date of independence to Aug. 15, 1947, coinciding with the second anniversary of Japan's surrender to the allied forces in World II which he considered significant.
New Delhi and Karachi celebrate independence day on Aug. 15 and Aug. 14 respectively, though the reason for Karachi celebrating it a day earlier, is unknown.
The Grand Celebration
On the day of Independence, the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag on Red Fort followed by reciting the national anthem of India. Later, the Prime Minster addresses the nation highlighting India's glorious past and sketches its progress and vision.
This is accompanied by multiple parades prepared by the armed forces, police and school children exhibiting the diverse culture and tradition of India.
The current President, Droupadi Murmu will have a nationwide address on the eve of India's independence (Aug. 14). The address will broadcast from 1900 hours on all the national network of Akashvani and telecast over all channels of Doordarshan in Hindi followed by the English version, the President's office said.
The broadcast of the address will later be telecasted in regional languages by regional channels of Doordarshan, her office added.
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