Red Fort, Delhi

Unfurling freedom. Independence Day

As the Red Fort echoes with patriotic speeches, the nation celebrates its Independence Day today. Observed every year on August 15, the day marks India's freedom from British rule in 1947. Years of colonial control had fuelled Indian nationalism and deepened the collective desire for self-governance. It was on this day that the Indian Independence Act of 1947 came into force, transferring legislative powers to the Indian Constituent Assembly.

This historic milestone was the result of a long and determined freedom movement. The struggle was led by countless leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and many others, who inspired the nation through non-violent resistance, civil disobedience, and relentless sacrifice. India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, marked the moment of independence by hoisting the national flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi, seen in today's image. Since then, the tradition continues as the serving prime minister unfurls the tricolour at the same iconic spot and addresses the nation each Independence Day.