Every year, India celebrates Independence Day on August 15 with great enthusiasm and pride. This year, the country marks its 79th Independence Day – a day that reminds us of the value and cost of freedom. However, in two districts of India – Malda and Nadia (in West Bengal) – Independence Day is not celebrated on August 15, but on August 18.

Why is it celebrated on August 18?

On August 15, 1947, India became free, but at that time Malda and Nadia were part of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Instead of celebrations, these regions witnessed protests, as locals were unhappy about being included in Pakistan. It took three days to incorporate these areas into India. On the night of August 17, Viceroy Lord Mountbatten amended the partition map, and these districts officially became part of India. Since then, they have been celebrating Independence Day on August 18.

The role behind the map changes

This change was largely due to the efforts of leaders like Pandit Syama Prasad Mookerjee and the royal family of Nadia. They exerted pressure on the British administration to include these regions in India.

Significance of Independence Day

On August 15, 1947, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort and delivered his historic speech. Independence Day is not just a reminder of our freedom, but also of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters. It reinforces unity, pride, and our sense of duty towards the nation. Every year, the Prime Minister hoists the tricolour at the Red Fort, and schools, colleges, and government institutions across the country organise cultural events and patriotic programmes.