Introduction 


India celebrates its Independence Day every year on 15 August to mark freedom from British colonial rule in 1947. While we all know about the national flag hoisting and patriotic songs, there are many hidden facts that most people don’t know. Let’s uncover them.

1. Why 15 August Was Chosen

Many believe India chose the date, but in reality, Lord Mountbatten selected 15 August 1947 because it was the second anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II.


📖 Source: History.com, BBC Archives



2. India Was Not the Only Country to Get Freedom That Day

On the same day, South Korea and Bahrain also celebrate their Independence Day (though for different historical reasons).


📖 Source: World Almanac 1947 Edition

3. Partition Happened a Day Before Independence

The partition of India and Pakistan officially took place on 14 August 1947, one day before India’s Independence, to allow Pakistan its own ceremony.


📖 Source: Nehru Memorial Museum & Library



4. No National Anthem Was Sung on First Independence Day

Though “Jana Gana Mana” was written in 1911, it was adopted as India’s national anthem only in 1950. On 15 August 1947, no official anthem was played.


📖 Source: Government of India Records, 1950



5. The British Didn’t Leave Completely on 15 August

Even after independence, the Governor-General of India was a British citizen, Lord Mountbatten, until June 1948.


📖 Source: British Parliament Archives



6. The Flag Was Handmade by Indian Women

The first national flag hoisted in 1947 was hand-spun and woven khadi made by the Indian women’s group led by Matangini Hazra supporters.


📖 Source: Khadi and Village Industries Commission



7. Only One PM Has Hoisted the Flag Most Times

Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort 17 times — the highest for any Indian Prime Minister.


📖 Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB)

8. First Telegram After Independence Was Sent to England

The first message sent by independent India was a telegram to the British King George VI announcing the country’s freedom.


Source: Indian Postal Archives



9. First Independence Day Was Not a Public Holiday

Offices and schools were open on 15 August 1947 because the holiday declaration came later.


Source: The Hindu, 1947 Archives

10. A 21-Gun Salute Marks the Occasion

Every Independence Day, the PM’s speech at Red Fort is followed by a 21-gun salute, a military tradition borrowed from the British Empire.


Source: Indian Armed Forces Protocol Manual



 Conclusion

Independence Day is not just about hoisting flags — it’s about remembering the lesser-known moments, sacrifices, and stories that shaped modern India.