India Independence Day

India Independence Day History

India Independence Day commemorates India's freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947. It is a national holiday in India, and many Indian communities around the world also celebrate the day with cultural events and festivities. Australia has a significant Indian population, and India Independence Day is also celebrated in Australia with various cultural events, including flag hoisting, parades, music, dance, speeches, and food festivals.

The struggle for Indian independence from British rule started in the late 19th century, led by Indian nationalist leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who employed non-violent civil disobedience methods to achieve independence. After years of protests and negotiations, India finally gained independence on August 15, 1947, ending almost 200 years of British colonial rule in the country. The day is significant not only for India, but also for the rest of the world, as it was one of the most important events in the in the history of colonialism and marked a turning point in the struggle for freedom and self-determination of oppressed nations.

In Australia, India Independence Day is an occasion for the Indian community to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage, and to honor the struggle and sacrifices of their forefathers who fought for India's freedom. It is also an opportunity to strengthen the bonds between India and Australia, and to promote mutual understanding and respect between the two nations. India Independence Day is observed annually on August 15th.

India Independence Day facts

• The partition of India led to a massive scale of orgies of communal violence, leaving more than a million dead and causing the migration of approximately 20 million people.
• Portugal was the last country to recognize India's Independence, in 1975, because it held onto a few Indian territories post-1947, like Goa, which it considered as Portuguese state.
• The Indian national flag is hoisted at the Red Fort in Delhi every year on this day by the Prime Minister of India, followed by a nationally broadcast speech from its ramparts.
• Indian independence leader Jawaharlal Nehru had a close relationship with Australian Prime Minister John Curtin during World War II. Nehru reportedly admired Curtin's dedication to the labour movement and his efforts to secure a better deal for Australia within the British Empire.
• In 1938, Australia's Waterside Workers Federation organized a series of strikes in support of Indian independence from British rule. The strikes targeted British shipping, with the workers calling for Britain to respect India's political aspirations and grant them independence.

In the News and Trending in Australia for India Independence Day

Top things to do in Australia for India Independence Day

• Watch the annual broadcast celebrating Independence Day. The Prime Minister raises the Indian flag and gives an address to the nation. There are also parades and cultural events that are open to the public.
• Enjoy traditional Indian cuisines. Some popular dishes include Murgh Makhani (buttered chicken), Rogan Josh (red lamb), and Chole (chickpea curry).
• Friendly cricket matches between India and Australia supporters or among Indian community members are a popular way to celebrate India's Independence Day in the country where cricket is loved.
• Many Indian communities in Australia organize get-togethers, picnics, and other informal gatherings to celebrate India's Independence Day. Joining such events can be a great way to experience Indian culture and make new friends from the community.