Why 15 August?
Independence Day celebrates the day India became free from British rule on 15 August 1947, after a long freedom struggle led by leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Patel, Bhagat Singh and countless others.
At the Red Fort
Every year the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and addresses the nation. The day begins with a 21-gun salute and the national anthem, and gallantry awards are announced.
Celebrations everywhere
Schools, offices and housing societies hold flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes and patriotic songs. Homes and vehicles display the tricolour, and in Delhi and other cities the sky fills with kites flown to celebrate freedom.