Photo of the Taj Mahal in India (Photo from Wikimedia Commons)
The Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC) wishes to extend its full cooperation in the celebration and commemoration of the Republic of India on its 77th Independence Day this August 15, 2023. May we all embrace the spirit of nationhood so that we can all work together towards the path to economic and social development.
History
Photo of the Red Fort in Old Delhi, India (Photo from Britannica)
India, which is located in South Asia and one of the largest nations in the world in terms of land area and population size, is considered to be one of the world’s cradles of civilization. Artifacts and archaeological discoveries would suggest that one of the earliest civilizations began in the Indus Valley thousands of years ago. From this, India has experienced a very long period of regional expansion. Two of the world’s most dominant religions were born in India - Hinduism, and Buddhism.
The Europeans came to the country in the 17th century and began establishing its colonial government. By the 18th century, the English had outdone all other Western powers and established themselves as the dominant power in India. For two centuries, India was ruled by the British and administered revolutionary changes in the social, political, and economic life of the country.
Jawaharlal Nehru delivering his speech on the eve of first Independence Day (Photo from Wikipedia.org)
At midnight on August 15, 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru declared India as an independent country, where he delivered the speech “Trieste Destiny”. During his speech, he said, “When the world sleeps at the touch of the midnight hour, India will wake up to life and freedom. Today we ended our misfortune, and India again searched for itself.”
After this, the Assembly members vowed to give their services to the country with full integrity. Officially the National Flag was presented to the Assembly. So India became officially an independent country and Nehru and Viceroy Lord Mountbatten, respectively, became Prime Minister and Governor General. Mahatma Gandhi was not involved in this celebration. He stayed in Calcutta and kept a 24-hour fast for promoting peace among Hindus and Muslims.
Celebrations
Photo of the Indian flag (Photo from Hindustan Times)
Every year, the nation celebrates this momentous event with people filled with the colors of pride and patriotism. It is a national public holiday observed by the whole populace. The celebration starts with the President delivering the “Address to the Nation” while the Prime Minister hoists the Indian flag on the ramparts of the historical site in Red Fort in Delhi. The Indian national anthem, Jana Gana Mana is sung afterwards then a parade of the Indian Armed Forces and paramilitary forces ensues.
The streets of Delhi are also filled with performances, pageants, and cultural activities showcasing the rich traditions and history of India. Schools, colleges, and universities also participate in the activities encouraging the Indian youth to join in order not to forget the struggles of their forefathers in obtaining their independence from the rule of the West during the 20th century. During this day, one can see citizens of India waving the colors of the flag in different sizes in symbolizing their allegiance to their country.
The theme for this year's celebration is "Nation First, Always First" as a part of the wider "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav" celebration. As part of its effort to acknowledge the nation's many cultures, the government has decided to put into place a number of programmes this year.
Sources
- Brief History of India.
https://www.memphistours.com/India/india-travel-guide/india-culture-and-travel-information/wiki/brief-history-of-india# - Independence Day 2023: Will India celebrate its 76th or 77th I-Day this year? Here's all you need to know.
https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/independence-day-2023-will-india-celebrate-its-76th-or-77th-i-day-this-year-heres-all-you-need-to-know-101691642368006.html
