10 Amazing Facts About Indian Independence Day
10 Amazing Facts About Indian Independence Day 🕊️
Midnight Freedom
India gained independence at the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, with Jawaharlal Nehru delivering his iconic "Tryst with Destiny" speech, marking the birth of a free nation.
Astrological Timing
The exact moment of independence, 12:01 AM, was chosen for its astrological significance, aligning with the favorable Pushya Nakshatra and Abhijeet Muhurta, symbolizing a strong foundation for the nation.
Gandhi's Absence
Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, did not attend the first Independence Day celebrations in Delhi. He was in Kolkata, fasting to promote peace amid communal riots.
Why August 15?
Lord Mountbatten chose August 15, 1947, as it coincided with the second anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II, a date he found symbolically significant.
Global Independence Day
India shares its Independence Day with five other nations: North Korea, South Korea, Bahrain, Republic of Congo, and Liechtenstein, all celebrating on August 15.
No Anthem in 1947
India did not have an official national anthem on August 15, 1947. "Jana Gana Mana" and "Vande Mataram" were adopted on January 24, 1950.
Flag Evolution
The first Indian flag, hoisted in 1906, had red, yellow, and green stripes. The current tricolor with the Ashok Chakra was designed by Pingali Venkayya and adopted in 1947.
Khadi Flag
The Indian flag is made exclusively by the Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha in Dharwad, using hand-spun and handwoven cotton khadi.
Goa's Late Freedom
While India became free in 1947, Goa remained a Portuguese colony until it was annexed by Indian troops in 1961, making it the last state to join India.
Dominion Status
On August 15, 1947, India became a dominion within the British Commonwealth, with King George VI as Emperor and Lord Mountbatten as Governor-General, until full republic status in 1950.
Sources: LiveMint, Indian Express, Panacea Concept, HerZindagi, Treebo, Business Insider India
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