Central Idea

Every year on August 15, India commemorates its Independence Day with the hoisting of the national flag at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi.
This historic tradition, initiated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, holds deep significance in India’s journey towards self-rule and liberation from colonial rule.

About Red Fort

Constructed by: The Red Fort, also known as “Lal Qila” in Hindi, was constructed during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Its construction began in 1638 and was completed in 1648. It was designed to be the main residence of the Mughal emperors.
Architectural Marvel: The Red Fort is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, characterized by its red sandstone walls and intricate marble decorations. It combines Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Red Fort was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. It is recognized for its historical and cultural significance and its exceptional architectural design.
Layout: The Red Fort is a massive structure with walls extending over 2 kilometers. It is designed in the shape of an irregular octagon, with two main entrances: the Lahore Gate and the Delhi Gate.
Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas: The complex houses the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). The former was used for addressing the general public, while the latter was reserved for private meetings and discussions.
Mumtaz Mahal: Within the complex, there is a white marble structure known as Mumtaz Mahal, often mistaken for the Taj Mahal. It is the burial place of Shah Jahan’s wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Era: Under the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal rule, Delhi emerged as a pivotal capital city. It became synonymous with the seat of power, and the Mughals established their dominion from the magnificent Red Fort.
Symbolic Rulership: The Mughal emperors’ association with Delhi granted them symbolic legitimacy even as their actual authority waned. They continued to be recognized as the sovereign rulers of India, despite their diminishing control.
Rebellion of 1857: The Rebellion of 1857 further emphasized the Red Fort’s symbolic significance. The rebels rallied around the aged Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, underscoring the fort’s role as a rallying point for indigenous authority.

British Rule and Red Fort: After suppressing the Rebellion of 1857, the British retained the Red Fort but stripped it of its grandeur. They transformed the fort into a British garrison, erasing elements of its Mughal heritage.
Co-opting Symbolism: Despite reducing Delhi’s significance, the British recognized its symbolic importance. The Delhi Durbars and the decision to shift the capital to Delhi from Calcutta highlighted its centrality and authority.

INA Trials: The Red Fort regained prominence during the Indian National Army (INA) trials, where INA officers were tried for treason. These trials evoked nationalistic sentiments and established the Red Fort as a symbol of resistance against British oppression.
Reclaiming for Independence: As India approached independence, Nehru’s decision to hoist the national flag at the Red Fort in 1947 symbolized the reclamation of this historical site from British colonial rule. It marked the assertion of India’s sovereignty and the culmination of its struggle for freedom.

INA Trials: The Red Fort played a crucial role in the trials of the Indian National Army (INA) officers in the mid-1940s. The trials stirred nationalist sentiments and highlighted the site as a symbol of resistance against British rule.
Nehru’s Flag Hoisting: Jawaharlal Nehru’s decision to hoist the national flag from the Red Fort on August 15, 1947, signified the reclamation of the site from colonial dominance and marked India’s emergence as a sovereign nation.

Continuing Tradition: The tradition of hoisting the national flag and delivering the Independence Day address from the Red Fort continues to this day.
Reclamation of Identity: The celebrations at the Red Fort annually emphasize the triumph of India’s struggle for independence and the reclaiming of its cultural and historical identity from colonial rule.