Why in the News?
On August 15, 2025, Prime Minister delivered the longest Independence Day speech (103 minutes) from the Red Fort, continuing a tradition started by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1947.
The fort’s choice as the venue reflects its historic role as Delhi’s seat of power and symbol of sovereignty.
About the Red Fort:
- Construction: Built in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the palace fort of Shahjahanabad, his new capital.
- Material: Enclosed by massive red sandstone walls with royal pavilions and apartments.
- Water Feature: Contained the Nahr-i-Behisht (“Stream of Paradise”), a continuous water channel.
- Architectural Value: Prime example of Mughal architecture, blending Islamic traditions with Indian craftsmanship.
- Recognition: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
Historical Significance of Delhi and Red Fort:
- Delhi’s Role: Seat of power for nearly a thousand years, regarded as “capital of all Hindustan” by Babur.
- Shahjahanabad: Inaugurated in 1648 with the Red Fort at its centre.
- Symbol of Sovereignty: Even after Mughal decline, Delhi remained central; East India Company minted coins in the emperor’s name.
1857 Revolt and British Authority:
- Revolt Centre: Bahadur Shah Zafar was declared leader by sepoys in Delhi.
- Aftermath: Fall of Delhi ended Mughal rule; Zafar was exiled.
- Fort Damage: British converted Red Fort into a military garrison, destroying ~80% of interiors.
- Imperial Authority: Delhi Durbars (1877, 1903, 1911) asserted British control before capital shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.
Significance of Red Fort for Independence Day:
- INA Trials: Held in Red Fort in 1946, igniting nationalist fervour.
- 1947 Ceremony: Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the national flag on 15 August 1947 and gave the first Independence Day address.
- Tradition: Since then, every Prime Minister hoists the flag and addresses the nation from its ramparts.
- Symbolism: Site once stamped with colonial dominance, now reclaimed as a symbol of India’s sovereignty.
| [UPSC 2021] What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26th January, 1950?
Options: (a) A democratic Republic (b) A Sovereign Democratic Republic* (c) A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic (d) A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic |
