Independence Day is one of the most important national festivals in India. It is celebrated every year on 15th August to mark the anniversary of India's freedom from British colonial rule in 1947. On this day, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and addresses the nation. Various cultural programs, parades and events are organized across the country to commemorate the sacrifices and achievements of the freedom fighters and leaders who shaped India's destiny.
The year 2023 will be a special year for India as it will mark the 77th Independence Day and the culmination of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, a 75-week long celebration that started on 12th March 2021 with a march at Sabarmati Ashram by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is a campaign to showcase India's rich and diverse culture, heritage, history and achievements to the world. It also aims to inspire and empower the youth to contribute to the nation's development and progress.
The theme of Independence Day 2023 is likely to be 'Unsung Heroes of Indian Freedom Struggle', as suggested by the Ministry of Culture. The theme intends to honour and acknowledge the lesser-known personalities who played vital roles in India's freedom movement, such as Rani Gaidinliu, Tirupur Kumaran, Matangini Hazra, U Tirot Sing, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Alluri Sitarama Raju and many others. The theme also resonates with the spirit of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' or self-reliant India, which is the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a new and prosperous India.
Independence Day is not only a day of celebration but also a day of reflection and gratitude. It reminds us of the values and ideals that our nation stands for, such as democracy, secularism, unity, diversity, justice and peace. It also urges us to uphold our duties and responsibilities as citizens and work together for the common good of our country. Independence Day is a day to salute our tricolour flag, which symbolizes our pride, honour and glory as Indians.