Short Essay on Independence Day - The Day India Became Independent
The day of 15th August 1947 has been engraved in the golden history of India. It is the day when India got its freedom from 200 years of British rule. It was a hard and long struggle in which many freedom fighters and great men sacrificed their lives for our beloved motherland.
India celebrates its Independence Day on the 15th of August every year. This year India Independence Day is celebrated with the theme of “Viksit Bharat” which means Developed India. This theme reflects the Indian government's vision to transform the country into a developed nation by 2047, which will be the 100th anniversary of India's independence
Independence Day 2024 reminds us of all the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters to liberate India from British rule. On 15th August 1947, India was announced free from British imperialism and turned into the biggest vote-based system, the largest democracy in the world.
Using this Independence Day essay in English, students can track down every one of the significant subtleties of India's Independence history. This can help them with their exam preparation as questions are generally asked in the CBSE English paper. Additionally, they can utilise this article as study material for the Independence Day essay for kids during the exam.
Also Check: India Independence Day 2024 - History and Background
Essay on Independence Day 2024
15th August is announced as a public celebration with flag hoisting, marches, and social works. Schools, universities, workplaces, society buildings, government, and private associations celebrate this day beautifully. On this day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the National Flag at the Red Fort and addresses the country with a speech. Doordarshan communicates the whole occasion in real-time on TV.
History of Independence Day
In 1947, on 15th August, India became independent. We won freedom from British Raj after a hard struggle. On this day at the stroke of midnight, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, our first Prime Minister, unfurled the National Flag at the Red Fort for the first time. It marked the end of the 200 years old British reign in India. We now breathe air in a free and sovereign nation.
The British have governed India for about 200 years. Under British colonisation, the life of every Indian was depressing and full of struggle. Indians were treated as slaves and had no freedom of speech. Indian rulers were puppets in the possession of British officers. Indian fighters were dealt with cruelty in British camps, and farmers were starving as they couldn't grow crops and needed to pay substantial land taxes.
On this special occasion, the people of India remember the selfless sacrifices and unparalleled contributions of great men and women to achieve the independence of India. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, Sardar Patel, and Gopalbandhu Das are paid reverent homage by one and all in the country.
Also Check: India Independence Day Speech
Great Indian Freedom Fighters
India couldn't have acquired independence without the efforts of numerous extraordinary freedom fighters. Bhagat Singh, Rani of Jhansi, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Subhas Chandra Bose, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Ram Prasad Bismil, and Ashfaqulla Khan are some of the notable names.
Role of Women in India's Independence
Several women have played a significant part in the Indian freedom movement. Savitribai Phule, Mahadevi Verma, Capt Laxmi Sehgal, Rani Laxmibai, and Basanti Devi are just a few crucial names to remember. These women along with many others played a prominent role in leading India towards its independence.
The ‘Good’ British Rulers in India
Not all the British were awful; many started adoring India and did incredible things for it. Some even took part in the Indian Independence struggle. Some of the good British rulers include Warren Hastings who developed court reforms; Freda Bedi who supported Indian nationalism; Allan Octavian Hume who started the Indian National Congress, etc.
Also Check: Welcome Speech for Indian Independence Day
Why Do We Celebrate Indian Independence Day?
India accomplished freedom following a 200-year-long battle. India gained complete independence from the British on 15th August 1947. That is why the day holds importance in the heart of each Indian citizen either living in India or abroad. India is celebrating 78 years of freedom on 15th August 2024. This day also helps us remember the struggles of freedom fighters and the lives sacrificed in attaining independence.
The struggle that our freedom fighters have gone through shows us that the freedom we appreciate today has been attained by shedding the blood of hundreds of individuals. It stirs patriotism inside each Indian. It makes the current generation understand the struggles of individuals around them and familiarise themselves with the freedom fighters of India.
Importance of Independence Day Essay
Independence day is a positive historical event for the country since we were free from British rule on this day. It unites diverse individuals all over the country. Unity in diversity is the fundamental path and strength of India. We feel pleased to be a part of the biggest majority-rule country on the planet, where we live in a democracy.
Independence Day is an important day in the life of every Indian citizen. Year after year, it reminds us of our great freedom fighters who sacrificed and struggled their lives in order to free our Motherland from British rule. It reminds us of the great paragons, which were the foundation of the dream of a free India, envisioned and realised by the founding fathers.
Also Check: Importance of Independence Day
Activities on Independence Day
Independence Day is celebrated with great joy across the country. People hold meetings, fly the tricolour flag, and sing the National Anthem. There is great enthusiasm among all. In the national capital, Delhi, this day is celebrated with great pomp and show. All leaders and common people gather in large numbers on the parade ground in front of the Red Fort and eagerly wait for the arrival of the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister then hoists the National Flag and makes a speech that focuses on the achievements of the government during the past year, mentions the issues that still need to be addressed, and calls upon further developmental efforts. Foreign dignitaries are also invited to this occasion.
Tributes are paid to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives during the struggle. The Indian National Anthem – “Jana Gana Mana” is sung. The parade by the Indian Army and the Paramilitary forces is followed by the speech. All state capitals hold events on similar lines with the Chief Minister of the respective states unfurling the National Flag.
Independence Day is observed with great honour at all the government and private institutions, schools, and colleges. Students take part in parades and sing the National Anthem before hoisting the National Flag. Some historical buildings are specially decorated with lights depicting the independence theme. Special programs like planting trees are taken up on this day. The young minds are infused with a sense of patriotism and nationalistic feelings. To celebrate this occasion, sports and cultural competitions are conducted, and prizes are awarded to the winners. Sweets are distributed among everyone. Patriotic songs can be heard at every street corner.
Another interesting feature of the celebration is the kite-flying event that is held all over the country with great zeal. The sky on this day is filled with kites of various colours, shapes, and sizes.
Even television channels and radio programs are charged up with patriotism. The channels telecast movies and documentaries based on patriotic themes in order to let the people and children know about various incidents of our freedom struggle and to inspire a love for our motherland. All the national newspapers also print special editions and cite inspirational stories and excerpts of the life of great men from the great books written about them.
Quotes on Indian Independence Day
"Long years ago, we made a tryst with destiny, and now the time comes when we shall redeem our pledge." - Jawaharlal Nehru
"The best road to progress is freedom's road." - Mahatma Gandhi
"India is, the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great-grandmother of tradition." - Mark Twain
"We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made." - Albert Einstein
Conclusion
Indian Independence Day 2024 is a national occasion and celebrated as a national holiday on which all shops, workplaces, schools and universities remain closed. This day is a token to the freedom fighters and patriots who sacrificed their lives so we could experience and live in a free land. The tricolour is hoisted in schools and other institutions on this day.
A wind of patriotism and national integration blows across the country on this day. The country is celebrating its 78th Independence Day as it completes 78 years of independence to remind the citizens of the sacrifices made by our forefathers. India will commemorate its past this Independence Day and will also lay plans for the future. It is now in the hands of India’s youth to shape and form the future of our country.
FAQs on India Independence Day Essay in English
1. Name a few important freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the independence of our motherland.
Some of the great freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, Sardar Ballabh Patel, Bhagat Singh, Maulana Kalam Azad, etc. were at the forefront of the freedom struggle.
2. What is the importance of Independence Day?
Independence Day is the day when all Indians remember the struggle of the eminent leaders to get freedom from the 200 years of British rule. They went through a long and very hard struggle. Many people sacrificed their lives to give us independence. So we pay tribute to all those freedom fighters and take an oath to carry on the legacy for a better country in the future.
3. Why is Independence Day called a Red-Letter Day?
Independence Day is called a Red-Letter Day because it is a special occasion when India got freedom from the hands of the British who ruled our country for over 200 years.
4. How do schools and colleges celebrate this day?
Most schools and colleges celebrate this day with great pomp and show. They hoist the National Flag and sing the National Anthem. The students conduct various cultural programs. They perform small skits based on the patriotic theme. Sports events are also conducted in many institutions, and awards are given to the winners. Many schools also conduct drawing competitions where the students are expected to draw something based on the theme of independence. Sweets are distributed among the students and the staff of the schools and colleges.
5. Which day is Independence Day in 1947?
India gained independence from the British on 15 August 1947.
6. Who declared freedom for India?
Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, declared India's independence on 15 August 1947.
7. What is the theme of Independence Day 2024?
The theme of India's 78th Independence Day in 2024 is "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India). This theme reflects the Indian government's vision to transform the country into a developed nation by 2047, which will be the 100th anniversary of India's independence
8. How to write 10 lines about Independence Day?
Here's a simple way to write 10 lines about Independence Day:
Independence Day is celebrated on August 15th every year in India.
It marks the day when India gained freedom from British rule in 1947.
The day honours the sacrifices of freedom fighters who struggled for India's independence.
It is a national holiday, and people celebrate with flag-hoisting ceremonies.
The Prime Minister delivers a speech from the Red Fort in Delhi.
Schools and institutions organise cultural programs and parades.
Patriotic songs and dances are performed to celebrate the nation's freedom.
The national flag is displayed prominently, symbolizing unity and pride.
Independence Day also reflects on India's progress and achievements.
It is a day to renew our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive India.
9. What is the best slogan for Independence Day?
A strong and inspiring slogan for Independence Day could be: "Unity in Diversity, Strength in Freedom"
10. What is the best topic for Independence Day?
An important topic for Independence Day could be: "The Role of Freedom Fighters in Shaping Modern India." This topic allows for a deeper understanding of the contributions of key figures in India’s struggle for independence and how their efforts have influenced the country’s development and values today.
11. Mention a few poems on Independence Day.
Here are a few poems that are often recited and celebrated on Indian Independence Day:
"Where the Mind is Without Fear" by Rabindranath Tagore
This poem, from Tagore's "Gitanjali," visualises a nation where people are free from fear and prejudice."Freedom" by Rabindranath Tagore
Another powerful piece by Tagore, this poem speaks of true freedom beyond mere political independence."The Gift of India" by Sarojini Naidu
This poem reflects on the contributions and sacrifices of Indian soldiers during World War I, symbolising the broader struggle for freedom."Incredible India" by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
This poem by the former President of India captures the beauty and spirit of the nation.
12. What was the time at which India got Independence in 1947?
India officially gained independence from British rule at midnight on August 15, 1947. The exact time of independence is often noted as 12:00 AM. This moment is famously marked by Jawaharlal Nehru's speech, "Tryst with Destiny," delivered shortly before the stroke of midnight on August 14, 1947.
13. How many years has it been since Independence Day 1947?
As of 2024, it has been 77 years since Independence Day 1947. Since we count the starting year (1947) as the first year, the 78th Independence Day is in 2024.
14. What are the points to be added in a short essay on Independence Day?
When writing a short essay on Independence Day, consider including the following points:
Introduction:
Briefly introduce the significance of Independence Day.
Mention the date and year when India gained independence (August 15, 1947).
Historical Context:
Summarize the colonial period under British rule.
Highlight key events leading up to independence, such as the freedom struggle, major movements, and leaders involved.
Key Figures:
Discuss important leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose.
Briefly mention their contributions and sacrifices.
Independence Day Celebration:
Describe typical activities on Independence Day, such as flag hoisting, parades, and cultural programs.
Mention the Prime Minister’s speech and its significance.
Significance:
Explain the importance of the day for national pride and unity.
Reflect on the values of freedom, democracy, and patriotism.
Current Relevance:
Discuss how Independence Day continues to inspire and unite the nation.
Mention ongoing efforts to uphold the values of independence and democracy.
Conclusion:
Summarize the importance of remembering and celebrating Independence Day.
End with a statement on the future and continuing journey of the nation.