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Published on: August 2, 2024
Independence Day celebrations in Delhi are a grand affair with an unforgettable ambience. Here are some of our recommendations for things to experience on Independence Day 2024 – this August 15th.
2024 will mark the 78th anniversary of Indian Independence from British rule. Prime Minister Modi will lead the annual flag hoisting at Red Fort, flanked by members of the Indian army, air force, navy and national guard. Thousands of members of the public - Indian residents from all over the country and overseas visitors – will attend to commemorate this momentous event in Indian history.
The Independence Day celebration in Red Fort culminates with this traditional flag hoisting event. Dating back to the inaugural Independence Day in 1947, the honour of raising the Indian tricolour was originally given to Lord Mountbatten, the British Governor General of India at that time. However, just before the event took place, he was deemed unsuitable for the task due to his status as a coloniser. After all, the raising of the flag is a highly symbolic act of displaying and celebrating India's liberation from colonial dominance. Thus, the first Prime Minister of Independent India, Jawaharlal Nehru, stepped up. Since then, the national flag has been raised every Independence Day by the Prime Minister in office. Once raised, the massive flag can be seen for miles around.
In Delhi, Independence Day celebrations are also marked by a grand parade from Rashtrapati Bhavan, via India Gate to Red Fort. The parade takes around two hours and is attended by hordes of spectators. Starting from Rashtrapati Bhavan, which is home to the Indian President and is thus a symbol of Indian democracy, it journeys almost two kilometres towards India Gate. The parade route is highly symbolic of India’s journey towards independence and memorable moments in its political history. It concludes at the Red Fort, which served as the main residence of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century.
All roads in and out of central Delhi are closed for most of the day, to accommodate the Delhi Independence Day parade march.
In honour of the occasion of Independence Day 2024, Qutab Minar will be illuminated orange, white and green - the colours of the Indian tricolour. Standing at 73 metres tall, the illuminated tower is a glorious spectacle to behold. Qutab Minar is around 40 minutes by car from The Oberoi, New Delhi.
Booking enquiries for The Oberoi, New Delhi can be made via reservations@oberoigroup.com
Having attended the parade and witnessed the flag hoisting, the best way to celebrate the end of a memorable day must be with authentic Indian food at Dhilli at The Oberoi, New Delhi. From the comfort of our inimitable restaurant mentored by Michelin-starred Chef Vineet Bhatia (MBE), you can wander the streets of old and new Delhi, sampling age-old recipes from street stalls, family homes and community kitchens. Signature recipes include chaat inspired by vendors of Chandni Chowk and kormas from Jama Masjid. All served with our warm, traditional Indian hospitality.
We strongly advise advance bookings. Please contact us.
