India, Aug. 14 -- Every August 15, the Tricolour rises across India, schoolchildren sing patriotic songs, and the country remembers the long struggle that ended British rule. But behind the familiar celebrations lie several lesser-known chapters of Indian history. From the adoption of the national flag and anthem to the delayed publication of the Radcliffe Line and the story of Goa's integration, India's Independence Day carries many facts that continue to surprise people.

India became independent on August 15, 1947, after a prolonged freedom movement against British colonial rule. The transfer of power marked the end of nearly two centuries of British colonial domination and began a new chapter of nation-building.

Note: August 15, 2026...