74th Independence Day of 2020
India's Independence Day: History, Significance, and Celebrations
August 15th marks one of the most significant days in Indian history — the day India gained freedom from British rule after nearly two centuries of colonization.
A Brief History
India's journey to independence began long before 1947. British influence in India started in the early 1600s through the British East India Company, which arrived initially for trade but gradually expanded its control over Indian territories through a combination of military force, political alliances, and economic dominance. By the mid-1800s, the Company effectively controlled most of the Indian subcontinent.
A major turning point came in 1857, with what is often called India's First War of Independence (or the Sepoy Mutiny, as the British referred to it). Indian soldiers serving in the British army rose up against oppressive policies and cultural insensitivity, sparking a widespread rebellion across northern and central India. Although the uprising was eventually suppressed, it marked a critical moment in the story of Indian resistance and led to the British Crown taking direct control of India from the East India Company in 1858, formally beginning what is known as the British Raj.
Over the following decades, a growing sense of nationalism spread across the country. The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, became a key platform for political dissent and demands for self-rule. In the early 20th century, the freedom struggle intensified under several key leaders and movements. Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a central figure, introducing the philosophy of Satyagraha — nonviolent civil disobedience — as a powerful tool against British rule. His leadership in movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), the Salt March (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942) mobilized millions of ordinary Indians, from farmers to students, in a united push for freedom.
Other prominent leaders — including Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Jawaharlal Nehru — contributed through different approaches, from armed resistance to political negotiation, each playing a vital role in shaping the final push toward independence. Their combined efforts, along with the growing economic and political pressure following World War II, made continued British colonial rule increasingly unsustainable.
Finally, on 15 August 1947, the provisions of the Indian Independence Act 1947, passed by the United Kingdom's Parliament, came into effect. India became a free nation, bringing an end to nearly 200 years of British colonial control. That same day, India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the Indian national flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi and delivered his historic "Tryst with Destiny" speech — a tradition of flag-hoisting and addressing the nation that continues to this day.
It's worth noting that independence also came at a heavy cost: the partition of India and Pakistan, which took place alongside independence, led to one of the largest and most tragic mass migrations in human history, with widespread communal violence and displacement. This makes Independence Day not just a celebration, but also a moment to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by millions.
How India Celebrates
Every year, Independence Day is celebrated as a national holiday across the country. The Prime Minister hoists the flag at the Red Fort and addresses the nation, followed by cultural programs, parades, and patriotic songs and games in schools, offices, and communities nationwide.
Over the decades, the day has come to represent more than just a historical milestone — it's a symbol of national pride, unity, and the sacrifices made by freedom fighters who fought for independence.
On 15 August 2020, India achieved 73 years of freedom, making this the 74th Independence Day of the country. People across the nation hoisted the national flag and took part in cultural programs and celebrations.
Seventy-three years on, the day is recognized as a matter of national pride, with successive prime ministers hoisting the flag and addressing the country from the Red Fort every year.
Here are some images to mark Independence Day 2020.
Flag Colours and Their Meanings
Saffron — indicates the strength and courage of the country.
White — indicates peace and truth, represented by the Dharma Chakra (wheel of law).
Green — represents the fertility, growth, and auspiciousness of the land.
In this coronavirus pandemic, we all need to take care of our health by maintaining social distancing and using sanitizer or a mask — these are necessary precautions. Stay happy and healthy at home, at the office, or at your workplace, and help the corona warriors by following these rules.
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