Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Purnia Hoists Flag on August 14 Night
In the town of Purnia in India, people gather every year on the night of August 14 to raise the national flag.
They do this at the same time the flag was first raised in 1947, the year India became independent.
The tradition started as a spontaneous celebration and has continued for many decades.
Local leaders, older residents, and young people all come together at a place called Jhanda Chowk.
While most of India waits for the morning of August 15 to celebrate, Purnia marks the moment the news of freedom reached the town on August 14.
It is a way for the community to feel connected to the country’s history and to show pride in their heritage.
Purnia, India, hoists the tricolour on the night of August 14 each year.
The tradition began as a spontaneous act of joy and has continued for decades.
Residents gather at Jhanda Chowk to raise the flag at the same hour it was first raised in 1947.
The event attracts local leaders, elders, and young people who wish to connect with India’s independence.
While most of India celebrates on August 15, Purnia marks the moment the news of freedom broke on August 14.
- Who
- People of Purnia, including local leaders, elders, and young people
- What
- Hoisting the tricolour flag at night on August 14
- When
- Night of August 14 each year
- Where
- Jhanda Chowk in Purnia, India
- Why
- To honor the exact moment the news of India’s freedom broke and maintain a long‑standing tradition
- Location
- Purnia, India
- Event
- Night flag hoisting
- Date
- August 14
- Tradition start
- Decades ago
- Participants
- Local leaders, elders, youth