Free India Is Born!

India is a nation with a very rich and historic background. Independence Day (Hindi: Swatrantrata Divas) is celebrated on August 15 th. Today marks the 63 rd anniversary of India's Independence from British rule over this land and this year is no different as the entire country celebrates its freedom with much enthusiasm.

The British, had initially come for trade but gradually took over the total administration of the country. However,at the strike of midnight of the August 15, 1947, India shook off the shackles of British Rule and became free. It was a night of celebration all over the country.

Independence Day is celebrated with flag hoisting ceremonies kite flying, and cultural programmes all over the country. The main program is held at the Red Fort where the Prime Minster unfurls the National Flag and it is saluted by Guns.

Politicians hoist the Indian flag on all the government buildings, schools and colleges hoist the national flag too. Children carry the flag in their hands and it can be seen on literally everything today (streets, cars, telephone poles, electric wires) as surely no one forgets to give the Indian flag the respect it deserves on this very special day.
Streams of women and girls were out yesterday tapping on our windows asking us to purchase flags from them. We had no idea why at the time. Usually when we are stopped at a light or something we are not bombarded with kids and elderly women to buy things from them...not in our city anyway. They were all carrying flags and we had no idea. I feel badly now as we should have purchased one. Well, we did purchase a paper. Today's headline was the same headline and picture from 63 years ago, entitled FREE INDIA IS BORN! Huge, colorful fireworks lit up the sky last night until late into the night. All coule be seen from our living room balcony and it was quite an impressive show.

Happy Independence Day, India. Thank you for letting us watch you commemorate this fabulous day of celebration with you.