Top Historical Sites To Visit In India For Independence Day
Independence Day holds significant cultural relevance for the people of India, who had to fight for freedom from British rule during a standoff that tragically resulted in bloodshed and an enormous loss of life.
It is a day of patriotism, where poster making for Independence Day and other creative endeavours are carried out by young and old while community events allow locals to learn more about how India became free and the heroes of that movement.
For those wanting a more detailed and enriching Independence Day, a journey throughout India can provide many eye-opening experiences. Here are some of the leading locations you should visit in your lifetime to truly understand what our independence was built on.
1. Cellular Jail, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Indian independence leader Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Indian socialist and independence fighter Batukeshwar Dutt and numerous others fighting for the cause had the misfortune of being detained in these walls by the British.
This horror prison was dubbed Kala Pani by those incarcerated, which represents the taboo of the sea in Indian culture. Those fighting for independence were transported across the sea to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to be locked up with criminals and forgotten about.
The exiled freedom fighters were denied access and communication with their friends and families and were treated cruelly by the British soldiers that ran the fortress with an iron fist. This is not a place to go for a simple sight-seeing expedition and it is not for the faint of heart. But for those who want a glimpse at the truly horrific conditions and abuse those freedom fighters had to ensure, Cellular Jail is a bucket list destination.
Today it is a heritage site and a daily reminder of the sacrifice and struggle of those that fought so valiantly for independence from British rule.
2. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden that witnessed one of the most tragic incidents in Indian history – the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. On April 13, 1919, British troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering, killing hundreds. The bullet marks on the walls and the Martyrs’ Well stand as grim reminders of the incident. The site now houses a memorial commemorating the victims.
3. Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad
The peaceful protests co-ordinated by Mahatma Gandhi are well known around the world. Here at Sabarmati Ashram, located in the Sabarmati suburb of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, you can get a glimpse of how the great freedom advocate and his wife lived. During India’s struggle for independence, Gandhi and his wife called this serene home on the banks of the River Sabarmati.
Today, the Sabarmati Ashram has transformed into a museum that showcases various aspects of Gandhi’s life and teachings. It stands as a testament to Gandhi’s simplistic lifestyle and his indomitable spirit, serving as an inspiration to visitors from around the world. Visiting the ashram can be a deeply moving experience, reawakening one’s sense of independence and patriotism.
4. Aga Khan Palace, Pune
The Aga Khan Palace is a historical landmark where Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba Gandhi, and secretary Mahadev Desai were interned during the Quit India Movement. The palace houses a museum displaying photographs and personal items of Gandhi. The samadhis (memorials) of Kasturba and Mahadev Desai are also situated within the palace grounds.
5. Red Fort, Delhi
This is a hugely significant site, the place where India’s very first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru raised the Indian flag on the first day of independence on August 15, 1947. So significant is this site, it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Not only can you experience a genuine slice of history at Red Fort on Independence Day, you can also watch the annual tradition of the flag being raised and the Prime Minister’s speech that perseveres to this day.
6. India Gate, Delhi
The India Gate is a war memorial dedicated to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The Amar Jawan Jyoti, an eternal flame, burns beneath the arch in memory of the unknown soldiers who gave up their lives for the nation. This monument symbolises the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
7. Netaji Bhawan, Kolkata
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was a pivotal figure in India’s fight for independence, helping lead an army against the British from beyond India’s borders to help claim victory. To achieve that, he first had to escape house arrest in Kolkata. This home is where he launched the famous ‘great escape’ of 1941 that was a cornerstone of India’s fight for independence. Today it has been converted into a museum, library and research centre where locals and visitors can learn all about his incredible life and fight for independence.
8. Raj Ghat, Delhi
Raj Ghat memorial is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. This simple yet powerful monument marks the spot of Gandhi’s cremation. An eternal flame burns at one end in tribute to the ‘Father of the Nation’. Visitors from around the globe come to pay their respects to Gandhi’s memory at this serene site.
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Visiting these historical sites on Independence Day and perhaps even partaking in heritage walks across India can be a deeply moving experience, reminding us of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters. As we explore these landmarks, let’s remember the words of Jawaharlal Nehru, “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.”