Independence Day 2017

National observance of India's independence on 15 August 1947.

India’s Independence Day commemorates the end of British colonial rule and the transfer of power on 15 August 1947. The achievement followed decades of political organisation, mass movements, revolutionary activity, constitutional negotiation and sacrifice by people from many regions and communities.

Independence arrived together with the Partition of British India into India and Pakistan, bringing freedom as well as immense displacement and violence; that difficult dual history is part of the date’s memory. On the eve of independence, Jawaharlal Nehru addressed the Constituent Assembly with the “Tryst with Destiny” speech, and the new national flag became a central symbol of sovereignty.

Each 15 August the Prime Minister hoists the flag at Delhi’s Red Fort and addresses the nation, while schools, public institutions and communities hold flag ceremonies and cultural programmes. The day celebrates self-government while also recalling the responsibility to protect the democratic and plural ideals of independent India.

Commemorates independence from British colonial rule on 15 August 1947, honours diverse freedom struggles and remembers the human cost of Partition alongside constitutional democracy and equal citizenship.

Flag-hoisting ceremonies, the national anthem, tributes and cultural programmes mark the day. At Delhi's Red Fort, the Prime Minister hoists the flag and addresses the nation.

Observed across India and by Indian communities worldwide. The national ceremony takes place at Delhi's Red Fort; schools and states highlight local freedom fighters and histories.