Indian independence is a momentous event in the history of India, marking the end of nearly two centuries of British colonial rule and the birth of a sovereign nation. The struggle for independence was a long and arduous journey, characterized by the relentless efforts of numerous freedom fighters, led by prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose.
The turning point in India’s fight for freedom came with the non-violent civil disobedience movement, spearheaded by Mahatma Gandhi. His philosophy of non-violence (Satyagraha) and peaceful resistance inspired millions across the country to unite against British imperialism. Mass protests, boycotts of British goods, and widespread public participation led to mounting pressure on the colonial administration.
Finally, on August 15, 1947, India achieved independence, a moment of jubilation and pride for its people. However, the joy was tempered by the partition of British India into India and Pakistan, resulting in mass migrations and communal violence that scarred the subcontinent.
Indian independence paved the way for a democratic republic, with the adoption of a new constitution in 1950. It initiated a journey of nation-building, economic development, and social progress. Despite facing challenges over the years, India has emerged as a thriving democracy and a major player on the global stage, maintaining its unity in diversity and celebrating its rich cultural heritage. The struggle for independence remains a reminder of the power of unity, determination, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.
Here are the 15 Facts about the Independence of India
British East India Company was founded in 31st December 1600, established first Indian factory at Masulipatnam on the Andhra Coast of the Bay of Bengal in 1615.
The First British fortress in India, Fort St.George built in 1639 at the coastal region of Chennai city, now known as George Town.
India’s First Freedom fighter Alagumuthu Kone of Thoothukudi born in 1728, fought in the first war against the British in Indian history in 1750.
The Government of India Act of 1858 allowed the British Crown to take full control of India after the Indian Rebellion of 1857 which was led by Mangal Pandey.
Indian National Congress founded in 1885, becoming a prominent platform for Indians seeking greater political representation, freedom struggle against the British and eventual independence.
Swadeshi Movement was the first organized mass movement in 1905 that took place in response to the British Government’s decision to partition Bengal province.
V. O. Chidambaram Pillai in Tuticorin, who took over British India Steam Navigation Company and named it Swadeshi Shipping Company in October 1906 as the First Indian-owned shipping company.
The Indian national flag was first hoisted on 7th August 1906 at Parsee Bagan Square, Kolkata.
Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) Led by Mahatma Gandhi, this non-violent protest aimed to challenge British authority by boycotting British goods, institutions, and adopting indigenous products.
Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34) led by Gandhi, which included the famous Salt March in 1930, highlighting Indians’ resistance to the oppressive British salt tax.
The Quit India Movement, a movement launched at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8 1942, during World War II, demanded an end to British rule in India.
Lord Mountbatten chose August 15, as it coincided with the date of Japan’s surrender to the Allied Forces after World War II on August 15, 1945.
The Radcliffe Line was published on 17 August 1947 demarcating the boundary between India and Pakistan, the line drawn by Cyril Radcliffe made 14 million people move across the line.
The song ‘Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata’, composed in 1911 by Rabindranath Tagore, was renamed ‘Jan Gan Man’ and as the National Anthem on January 24, 1950.
The name India was derived from the river Indus. It bears testimony to the great Indus Valley Civilization that flourished between the river’s tributaries and has been in use in Greek since the 5th century BCE.
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