As India gears up to celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15, a lesser-known fact about the national holiday is the distinction between "flag hoisting" and "flag unfurling." However, the significance of this day goes beyond these terms. The Red Fort, where the Indian flag is hoisted every year, holds deep historical and cultural significance, symbolising the country's rich heritage and enduring spirit of sovereignty. As the nation prepares to commemorate its freedom and unity, let's take a look at 7 songs that best represent the essence of India and its diverse culture on this special occasion.
August 15: Purana Quila and the Significance of Flag Hoisting in India
As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day on August 15th, the nation gears up to participate in a time-honored tradition: flag hoisting. While many may assume that the terms "flag hoisting" and "flag unfurling" are interchangeable, there is a subtle but important distinction between the two.
Flag Hoisting vs. Flag Unfurling
On India's Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. This event marks the official commencement of the day's celebrations.
Significance of the Red Fort
The Red Fort has served as the venue for flag hoisting since India gained independence in 1947. This imposing fortress, built in the 17th century, holds immense historical and cultural significance for India. Its towering red sandstone walls symbolize the country's rich heritage and enduring spirit of sovereignty. As the nation celebrates its freedom and unity, the Red Fort stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Indian people.
Celebrating India's Independence through Music
In addition to the formal flag hoisting ceremony, India's Independence Day is also celebrated through a vibrant array of cultural events and performances. Music plays a central role in these festivities, with patriotic songs evoking a sense of pride and unity among the nation's citizens. Here are seven songs that best represent the essence of India and its diverse culture on this special occasion:
FAQs
1. When is India's Independence Day celebrated? A: August 15th
2. Why is the Red Fort chosen for the flag hoisting ceremony? A: Its historical significance as a symbol of Indian sovereignty
3. What is the difference between flag hoisting and flag unfurling? A: Flag hoisting raises the flag vertically, while flag unfurling spreads it out horizontally.
4. What are some popular patriotic songs played on Independence Day? A: "Jana Gana Mana," "Vande Mataram," "Saare Jahan Se Accha"
5. What is the significance of music on Independence Day? A: Music evokes a sense of pride, unity, and patriotism among the nation's citizens.
Acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur was reminded of the timeless impact of his 1983 classic Masoom during a routine security check at Mumbai airport. A security officer humming a tune from the film sparked a moving conversation, followed by a fellow passenger joining in and requesting for a sequel. The heartwarming encounter has since gone viral, highlighting the enduring power of emotional storytelling.
As the fourth and final day of Chhath Puja approaches, devotees prepare for the ritual of Usha Arghya, which involves offering sacred offerings to the rising Sun. This tradition marks the end of the 36-hour long fast and is celebrated with deep devotion and rituals dedicated to the Sun God. With the auspicious timing of sunrise on Tuesday, October 28, devotees will come together to express gratitude and seek blessings from the Sun God. Stay updated with all the latest news and updates on Chhath Puja from around the world on News24.
Nakuul Mehta, known for his roles in various television shows, recently shared his struggles of being the second-choice parent on his podcast with his wife. He talks about how it affects him emotionally and the steps he is taking to manage the situation. The couple also discusses how they are strengthening their bond with their son and seeking expert advice on the matter.
Singer Grimes took to social media to defend Selena Gomez after trolls body shamed the actress and singer over stills from her new music video. Grimes called the comments "high school level bullying" and urged people to imagine how it would feel to be talked about in such a way. She also criticized the platforms for allowing this type of behavior and called for accounts to be suspended for body shaming en masse. Gomez has previously spoken out about body shaming and the impact it has on her mental health as a result of her struggle with lupus.
Rashika Shetty, a newcomer in the Kannada film industry, has landed a lead role in the upcoming film Manada Kadalu, directed by Yogaraj Bhat. Despite having no prior connections in the industry, she has won over the director with her audition and is now determined to carve a niche for herself in the industry. In an exclusive interview, Rashika talks about her unconventional journey, working with the renowned director, and her hopes for the film to become a blockbuster hit.
In a thrilling turn of events, two members of the Rohit Godara-Goldy Brar-Virender Charan gang were apprehended by Delhi Police while attempting to assassinate renowned comedian and reality TV star Munawar Faruqui. Authorities have confirmed that the suspects had received instructions from notorious gangster Rohit Godara, who has close ties with Canada-based Goldy Brar and Virender Charan. Investigations have revealed that the accused had carried out extensive surveillance in Mumbai and Bengaluru to track Faruqui's movements, highlighting the deep reach of organised crime syndicates targeting public figures in India.
On the occasion of actress Alice Kaushik's 28th birthday, her boyfriend and co-star from the show Pandya Store, Kanwar Dhillon, shared a sweet post on his Instagram. The couple can be seen twinning in black outfits in the picture, with Alice wearing cool printed pants and Kanwar sporting black shorts. Kanwar's heartfelt message wishing for her good health, happiness, and success showcases their love and chemistry. Their journey from on-screen romance to a real-life relationship has been going strong for almost 4 years now.
Maddock Films and Dinesh Vijan proudly unveil the trailer for Ikkis, a moving tribute to the bravery of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film marks the debut of Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, who plays the young war hero with conviction and passion. Packed with intense battle sequences and emotional depth, Ikkis promises to be a must-watch for all those who appreciate stories of courage and sacrifice.
Fox News' "Jesse Watters Primetime" will air live from the University of Mississippi during the Turning Point USA event, where Vice President JD Vance and Erika Kirk will be speaking. The event, which is part of the American Comeback Tour, will also be livestreamed on Fox Nation and will feature an exclusive interview with Erika Kirk by Watters. The event is free for students and has a general attendee waitlist.
Indian President Droupadi Murmu is set to take a sortie on a Rafale fighter jet from the Ambala Air Force Base in Haryana on Wednesday. This comes as India commemorates Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2022. Murmu, the third President and second woman to do so, will fly in a Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft at the Tezpur Air Force Station in 2023. Rafale jets, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, were officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2020.