Monday 15 August marks the 70th anniversary of India's Independence, when India became an independent nation after being under the rulership of the British Empire. India fought for freedom during a revolution and gained independence on this day, now a national holiday. On Sunday 21 August 2016 at 9am to 4pm, the High Commission of India and Indian Community Organisations in the UK will host this year's Independence Day celebrations at the Indian Gymkhana Club in London. It will be a free event for the Indian Diaspora and friends of India to join in the festivities. Activities will include Indian food stalls, a raffle draw, cultural programmes and a flag hoisting ceremony.
Leading up to Independence Day in India, the national flag is hoisted on a variety of buildings, including schools and in town centres. Children and adults also carry or wear the Indian flag.
This year in India the government plans to have two weeks of Independence Day celebrations starting from 1 August 2016. From the 1 - 14 August there will be concerts by the Services band and a display of military assets across the nation. From 12 - 17 August festivities will include displays of art and culture, folk performances, food festivals and handicraft stalls. Throughout 12 - 15 of August, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will screen patriotic films.
The main event is to be held at Red Fort in Delhi with the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi, hoisting the Indian flag and addressing the attendees.
