While July 18, 1947, marks a pivotal moment in Indian history—the day the Indian Independence Act was passed by the British Parliament—it is not observed as a public holiday in India. Instead, India celebrates its independence on August 15, the day the nation officially became free from British rule. Here’s why:
July 18, 1947: The Indian Independence Act
On this day, the British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act, which received royal assent from King George VI. The act legally paved the way for the creation of two independent dominions: India and Pakistan. It set the date for independence as August 15, 1947, and authorized the partition of British India.
August 15, 1947: The Official Date of Independence
Although the act was passed in July, independence was formally declared on August 15. Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, chose this date for a symbolic reason.
Why August 15 Was Chosen
Lord Mountbatten selected August 15 as it coincided with the second anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II (August 15, 1945), a moment he considered personally significant. By aligning India’s independence with a major global event, the date carried both symbolic and strategic weight.
Why July 18 Is Not a Holiday
Although July 18 marks the legal groundwork for independence, the actual transfer of power, celebrations, and declaration took place on August 15. That is why August 15 is commemorated as Independence Day, complete with national festivities and a public holiday, while July 18 remains a historically important but non-observed date.
Partition and Its Aftermath
The Indian Independence Act also led to the partition of British India into India and Pakistan, resulting in widespread migration, violence, and upheaval. The legacy of the act is both one of liberation and of deep trauma for millions affected by the partition.
In summary, July 18 is a key date in the journey toward Indian independence, but August 15 remains the day when freedom was formally achieved—and thus the date India celebrates as its national Independence Day