Archive · 14 Aug 2026
Why Independence Day Is Celebrated At The Red Fort
Every year on August 15, India has a big celebration called Independence Day.
This is the day India became a free country in the year 1947.
Before that, India was ruled by the British.
The biggest part of the celebration happens at a huge old fort called the Red Fort in New Delhi.
The Prime Minister of India climbs up the fort and raises the Indian flag, which is called the Tricolour.
Then the Prime Minister gives a speech to the whole country.
The first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, started this tradition back in 1947.
The Red Fort was built long ago by a Mughal emperor named Shah Jahan.
Its walls are made of red stone, which is why it is called the Red Fort.
The celebration reminds everyone of the freedom fighters who worked hard to make India free.
India celebrates its Independence Day every year on August 15, and this year marks the country's 80th Independence Day.
India gained freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947.
The Prime Minister hoists the Tricolour and addresses the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort in New Delhi.
The tradition began in 1947 when the first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the flag and addressed the nation.
The Red Fort was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century and later became a prominent venue for national events.
- Who
- The Prime Minister of India, who hoists the Tricolour and addresses the nation; the President of India, dignitaries and citizens also attend.
- What
- Independence Day celebrations featuring a flag-hoisting ceremony, a prime ministerial address and cultural performances.
- When
- August 15 every year; this year marks India's 80th Independence Day.
- Where
- The Red Fort in New Delhi, India.
- Why
- To commemorate India gaining freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947, and to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters.
- Event
- Independence Day of India
- Date
- August 15 (annually); this year the 80th Independence Day
- Year of Independence
- 1947
- Main Venue
- Red Fort, New Delhi
- Key Ceremony
- Prime Minister hoists the Tricolour and addresses the nation from the ramparts
- First Prime Minister to Hoist Flag
- Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (1947)
- Builder of Red Fort
- Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, 17th century
- Attendees
- President of India, dignitaries and citizens from across India