India is gearing up to celebrate its Independence Day in Goa on August 15, 2024, marking a significant milestone in its history. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s liberation from British colonial rule after nearly two centuries. Every year on August 15, people across India celebrate Independence Day to commemorate the country’s independence from British colonial rule. This year, 2024, will be marked as the 78th Independence Day celebration. The theme for Independence Day 2024 is “Nation First, Always First,” and all programs and events on this day will be based on this theme.
History of Independence Day
On July 4, 1947, the Indian Independence Bill was introduced in the British House of Commons. British dominance came to an end after 200 years on August 15, 1947. The British enacted the Indian Independence Act on July 18, 1947, and this act was a result of the Indian Independence Movement, which had been active for a long period. Many freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, and more fought for our independence. Several brave fighters laid down their lives for our country.
Significance of Independence Day
The country observes Independence Day as a national holiday. This day serves as a reminder of the numerous sacrifices made by our warriors to advance the liberation movement and secure our independence from British domination. The Indian National Flag, designed by Pingali Venkayya, an educationist and freedom fighter from Andhra Pradesh, symbolizes our freedom. On August 15, 1947, the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the national flag at Lahori Gate of Red Fort in Delhi. The present national flag has three colors: saffron representing courage and sacrifice, white representing peace, and green representing prosperity. The Ashok Chakra in the middle represents the cycle of life.
Independence Day in Goa: A Memorable Celebration
People in Goa celebrate Independence Day in a very memorable way. As a school-going child, I remember going to school for the celebration of Independence Day. The day would start with a flag hoisting ceremony early in the morning, followed by a mass. After the mass, there would be a cultural program where students would sing, dance, and perform various acts. The day would end with giving us a samosa, a fruity drink, and a small flag.
When we returned home, our moms would prepare some Goan sweets made with coconut and jaggery. I personally favor God-Chun, made using grated coconut, black coconut jaggery, and red kidney beans. You just have to boil the kidney beans, mix them with black coconut jaggery and grated coconut. Apart from this, there would be sweets like alle belle, patoleo, dhonne, and poyee. Such memories are so beautiful and cherished.
