India's struggle for independence was a long and arduous journey spanning nearly 200 years of British colonial rule. The first major organized resistance began with the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, often called the First War of Indian Independence.
The early 20th century saw the rise of the Indian National Congress and leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who pioneered the philosophy of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha). The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Salt March (1930), and Quit India Movement (1942) became landmark events in the freedom struggle.
After World War II, with Britain weakened and Indian resistance growing, the British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act on July 18, 1947. At midnight on August 15, 1947, India became an independent nation, with Jawaharlal Nehru as its first Prime Minister.
The price of freedom was partition - the creation of Pakistan. This led to one of the largest migrations in human history and tragic violence. Despite these challenges, India adopted its constitution on January 26, 1950, becoming a sovereign democratic republic.
Today, as we celebrate 78 years of independence, we honor the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in our constitution.