Independence Day 2023: It Is 76th Or 77th Independence Day Celebration, All You Need To Know

Independence Day 2023: Independence Day (Swatantrata Diwas) is celebrated on 15 August and it is declared a National Holiday in India.

On 15 August 1947, India got its freedom, ending an almost 200-year British rule in the subcontinent. It is a day of immense pride for all Indians as we commemorate the sacrifices made by millions of our freedom fighters, who had sacrificed their lives in the freedom struggle and with their unfaltering grit and patriotism, forced the British empire to finally retreat.

Independence Day 2023: It Is 76th Or 77th Independence Day Celebration, All You Need To Know | Stock Image

Is India Celebrating 76th or 77th Independence Day This Year?

As India is gearing up to celebrate its Independence on August 15, but before the feeling of patriotism and celebrations comes a math-related confusion: Which Independence Day is it? This year the confusion has compounded as India will cross a milestone of 76 years of freedom from British Rule. So, is India celebrating its 76th or 77th Independence Day this year?

Every year, we are confronting a math-related conundrum ahead of the 15 August celebration.

Is India Celebrating 76th or 77th Independence Day This Year? | Agency

76th or the 77th, Independence Day: Explained

So here's the solution: On August 15, 1947, India earned its long-fought independence from British domination after more than 200 years.

This implies that India celebrated its first year of independence on August 15, 1948, 10 years later on August 15, 1957, twenty years later in 1967, and seventy years later in 2017.

So, as per the logic, this year marks the 76th anniversary of Freedom.

However, counting the number of Independence Days celebrated in India since August 15, 1947, which would be deemed the first, the total will be 77. On that account, India will celebrate its 77th year of Independence in 2023 and both arguments are valid.

ALSO READ: Explained: Why Goa Doesn't Celebrate Independence Day On August 15

Independence Day 2023: It Is 76th Or 77th Independence Day Celebration, All You Need To Know | Freepik

Independence Day 2023: Significance of the Tri-colour

Every year, on Independence Day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at Delhi¡¯s historic old Red Fort monument and makes an address to the nation, which is followed by a military parade.

The colours of our national flag have a great significance and a profound meaning. Did you know the national flag was adopted in its present form during the meeting of the Constituent Assembly held on July 22, 1947, twenty-three days before India¡¯s Independence on August 15, 1947? Interestingly, the flag is made from khadi which is domestically spun Indian cotton as a symbol of nationalism and freedom.

Independence Day 2023: It Is 76th Or 77th Independence Day Celebration, All You Need To Know | Stock Images

Saffron (Top Stripe): Saffron is a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the spirit of renunciation. It represents the country's willingness to sacrifice for the welfare of the nation and the vibrancy and dynamism of the Indian people.

White (Middle Stripe): The white stripe signifies purity, peace, and truth. It reflects India's commitment to truth and non-violence as advocated by Mahatma Gandhi, who played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence.

Green (Bottom Stripe): Green symbolises fertility, growth, and auspiciousness. It represents the lushness of the land and the agricultural heritage of India.

Ashoka Chakra: The Ashoka Chakra at the center of the white stripe is a depiction of the Dharma Chakra (wheel of righteousness) from the Sarnath Lion Capital of Ashoka, an ancient Indian emperor. It has 24 spokes and represents the relentless pursuit of truth, righteousness, and progress. The Ashoka Chakra also embodies the idea of motion, indicating India's desire to move forward as a nation.

Independence Day 2023: It Is 76th Or 77th Independence Day Celebration, All You Need To Know | AFP

How Independence Day is Celebrated in India

The day is observed with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor throughout the country. Here's how Independence Day is celebrated in India:

Flag Hoisting

The main event of Independence Day is the flag hoisting ceremony, which takes place at the Red Fort in Delhi, where the Prime Minister of India raises the national flag. Similar flag hoisting ceremonies are held at government offices, schools, colleges, and other public places across the nation. The flag is a symbol of India's sovereignty and unity.

Independence Day Patriotic Songs and Speeches

Patriotic songs like the national anthem ("Jana Gana Mana") and other patriotic tunes are sung during the celebrations. Speeches by dignitaries, including the Prime Minister, President, and Chief Ministers, highlight the significance of the day and honour the sacrifices made by freedom fighters.

Cultural Programs

Schools, colleges, and various organisations organise cultural programs, showcasing traditional dances, songs, skits, and performances that depict India's rich cultural diversity and heritage.

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Patriotic Films and Documentaries

Television channels and theaters screen patriotic films and documentaries related to India's struggle for independence, showcasing the sacrifices and contributions of freedom fighters.

Public Displays of Patriotism

People across the country wear traditional Indian attire or clothes with the national flag's colours, fly kites with patriotic messages, and participate in rallies and processions that celebrate India's freedom.

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