Independence Day at Red Fort: First-time visitors cherish Vande Mataram theme, PM Modi address
August 15 holds a special place in India's national calendar, marking the day in 1947 when the country gained independence from British rule. The Red Fort in Delhi has historically been the focal point of these celebrations, where the Prime Minister unfurls the national flag and addresses the nation. This year, the 80th Independence Day was themed around 'Vande Mataram', and thousands of people gathered at the historic fort to witness the ceremonies in person. The ceremony at the Red Fort has been an unbroken tradition since 1947, when the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the flag.
For many in the crowd, including families travelling long distances for their first time, the occasion was not just about listening to speeches but about being part of a key national moment. Karuna and Sandeep, a couple in their 30s, had come from Karnataka with their children, seven-year-old Sayesh and five-year-old Avesh. As the Prime Minister began his address, Karuna said, 'This is my first time attending the Independence Day celebrations. I already have goosebumps.' The family described the experience as unforgettable, with the sight of the flag unfurling and the sound of the national anthem leaving a lasting impression.
Lalita Pal, who recently moved to Delhi with her husband, had hoped to see Mr. Modi in person. 'We have travelled a long way, and what he spoke about children and their future was encouraging. Seeing the Tricolour flying made the whole place feel very patriotic,' she said. Even though the humid morning was tough for her young son, she said the family deemed it worthwhile.
The event, however, also drew visitors who were unaware that entry required passes from the Ministry of Defence's Aamantran portal. This led to long queues outside the Red Fort Metro station, with some waiting for over two hours in the morning heat. As seats in the allotted areas filled and gates closed, many were left outside. Anita Devi, in her early 30s, had travelled from Bawana in northwest Delhi with her husband and son. Not knowing about the pass requirement, she decided to view the decorated fort from outside. 'Even if I am standing outside, hearing the national anthem makes me feel proud,' she said.
A notable highlight was the formal rendition of Vande Mataram by an Army band, a first for such celebrations. Attendees joined in before the national anthem. The theme was reflected throughout the venue, with children in white and saffron forming the words 'Vande Mataram' in their seats, and flower petals spelling it on the dais. After the Prime Minister unfurled the Tricolour, Mi-17 helicopters flew overhead, releasing flower petals to the cheering crowd. The helicopters carried flags in national colours along with Vande Mataram banners. Tricolour balloons were released following the speech.
After the ceremony, Mr. Modi interacted with schoolchildren, NCC cadets, and volunteers of the My Bharat programme. The interaction underscored the government's emphasis on 'Yuva Shakti' and its vision of a developed India by 2047. For many attendees, the day was an opportunity to connect with the nation's past and look forward to its future. The event concluded with a renewed sense of national pride among those who managed to take part, whether inside the fort or from its vicinity.
