<p>The partition of India not only changed its landscape but its food as well. As lines were drawn across the soil, they severed the landscape, but those lines could not cut through the fragrant air of a kitchen. In the heavy trunks of millions fleeing both West and East Pakistan, wrapped alongside yellowed photographs and worn brass utensils, lived the invisible, indelible baggage of taste. It was the smoky, soul-warming sizzle of a Punjabi tandoor set up on a Delhi sidewalk, the delicate crunch of Sindhi dal pakwan in Bombay, and the fiery, river-kissed perfection of a Padma Ilish cooked in the cramped kitchens of West Bengal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Long before refugees found solace and built a home in a new land, the hearth provided familial comfort and sometimes became a place for a new kind of invention. Some favourites they carried over across the border, some dishes were created in austerity, some were introduced to a curious new neighbour whille others were put to rest, just to merge or adapt into a newer land.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Migration of Entire Cuisines and Shared Roots</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dr Kurush F Dalal, a Mumbai-based Archaeologist and Culinary Anthropologist, credits Sindh for bringing in an entire cuisine to India post-partition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>“It's not one dish; it's an entire cuisine that came to India. We have a large number of Sindhis who came here as refugees. So the whole of Sindhi cuisine as we understand it today is in India, essentially thanks to these migrants.”</p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dayal pointed out that particular dishes that we typically identify from West and East Pakistan were already being made on this side of the subcontinent. “It may have become more popular post-partition,” said Dayal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Vernika Awal, a Delhi-based food and culture writer and researcher and brand lead of Ikk Panjab, agrees with Dayal and adds, “Before Partition, Punjab shared a remarkably fluid culinary culture across what are now India and Pakistan. Post-Partition, East Punjab became more associated with vegetarianism, while West Punjab remained more meat-forward. But that divide was never simply religious. Food was shaped by caste, class and occupation, and in an agrarian society, even our relationship with cattle influenced what we ate. Vegetarianism, therefore, was also a question of privilege and social position."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When asked if any dishes were introduced to East Punjab post-partition, Awal said, “I think dishes like the Chapli kebab have travelled from the west to east and are finally kind of catching up and people are taking note.”</p><h2><strong>Debunking the Punjabi Meat Myth</strong></h2><p>Both Dayal and Awal revealed that while chicken is considered a staple of Punjabi cuisine, in reality, a lot of Punjabis are vegetarian.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Meat consumption was not simply a question of who ate meat and who didn’t. Even among meat-eating communities, hierarchy determined who got which part of the animal. The more desirable cuts and the offal were distributed along lines of class, caste and access. What you ate, and which part you ate, could tell you exactly where you stood in the social order,” said Awal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Crossing the Border in Bengal</strong></h2><p>In Bengal too, lines were blurred in terms of culinary specialities, with both communities being familiar with each other's flavours. However, dishes like <i>bhorta</i>, <i>shutki maach</i>, and <i>chitol macher muitha</i> became more popular in West Bengal post-partition.</p><h3>How to make Chitol Macher Muitha:</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p>West Bengal kitchens were introduced to <i>papdma macher jhaal</i>, <i>shorshe ilish</i>, crisp, layered <i>Dhakai porota</i> and others. Food became a means to stitch a fractured world back together, one bite at a time.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Necessity as the Mother of Culinary Invention</strong></h2><p>The partition also led to the invention of new dishes which we now commonly associate with the Punjabi community. Dishes like Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani did not exist before partition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>“Butter chicken was born out of strife. The fact that you can't afford to waste food, you had to find ways to ensure that there's no food wasted,” said Awal.</p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dayal points out that Dal Makhni too was a dhaba dish that came post-partition—a variation of the traditional ‘<i>Maa Ki Daal’</i>. “The cream and the butter were added to make dishes more indulgent, and also because, as an agrarian society, milk and its by-products are in plenty in Punjab,” added Awal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sindhis popularised spicy papads in India. Dayal also points to <i>Macaroni Sabji, </i>which is a staple in Sindhi households. Austerity led to the invention of new dishes: “Sindhis invented <i>Macaroni sabji </i>after food kits of dry macaroni were provided to them in refugee camps. They didn’t know what to do with it, put it in the cooker with spices, onion and potato—and you get <i>Macaroni sabji.”</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>How to make Macaroni Sabji</strong></h3>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-oqS3oQzE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-oqS3oQzE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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<h3>How to make dhaba-style Dal Makhani:&nbsp;</h3>

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<h2><strong>The Sweet Heritage of Displacement</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bengal also witnessed a change in sweets as Muslim <i>karigars</i> went to East Pakistan and the Hindu <i>Mayras</i> (craftsmen) came to West Bengal, bringing with them the legacy of <i>Dhakai</i> traditional sweets.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“There are Mayaras who migrated from the then East Bengal to West Bengal. Even to this date, you will have sweet shops in Kolkata that pay a homage to their desh/ homeland by naming sweets after Dhaka, Pabna etc,” says Dr Ishita Dey, author of <i>Sweet Excess: Crafting Mishti in Bengal</i> and professor at the Faculty, Department of Sociology, South Asian University.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>Sweets like <i>Pithe</i> were introduced in Bengal. Dey also points out a sweet called <i>Postokodom,</i> which is common to the Murshidabad area as well as across the border in the Rajshahi division in Bangladesh.</p></blockquote><h2><strong>The Enduring Hearth</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ultimately, partition redrew physical borders, but it could not contain the shared memory of taste. Through the hardships of displacement and refugee camps, food served as both a nostalgic link to lost homelands and a canvas for survival and reinvention. Culinary traditions adapted to austerity, blurred regional lines, and introduced vibrant new flavours across the subcontinent. Far more than mere sustenance, the post-partition kitchen became a site of resilience, proving that while land can be divided, the heritage of the hearth endures, healing and uniting a fractured world.</p>

Partition altered lives and created borders. But it also gave Indians a new palate. Dishes were born out of austerity, some were introduced to Indian kitchens as Hindus traveled from West and East Pakistan to India, carrying with them familiar tastes and memories. 

The partition of India not only changed its landscape but its food as well. As lines were drawn across the soil, they severed the landscape, but those lines could not cut through the fragrant air of a kitchen. In the heavy trunks of millions fleeing both West and East Pakistan, wrapped alongside yellowed photographs and worn brass utensils, lived the invisible, indelible baggage of taste. It was the smoky, soul-warming sizzle of a Punjabi tandoor set up on a Delhi sidewalk, the delicate crunch of Sindhi dal pakwan in Bombay, and the fiery, river-kissed perfection of a Padma Ilish cooked in the cramped kitchens of West Bengal. Long before refugees found solace and built a home in a new land, the hearth provided familial comfort and sometimes became a place for a new kind of invention. Some favourites they carried over across the border, some dishes were created in austerity, some were introduced to a curious new neighbour whille others were put to rest, just to merge or adapt into a newer land. Migration of Entire Cuisines and Shared Roots Dr Kurush F Dalal, a Mumbai-based Archaeologist and Culinary Anthropologist, credits Sindh for bringing in an entire cuisine to India post-partition. “It's not one dish; it's an entire cuisine that came to India. We have a large number of Sindhis who came here as refugees. So the whole of Sindhi cuisine as we understand it today is in India, essentially thanks to these migrants.” Dayal pointed out that particular dishes that we typically identify from West and East Pakistan were already being made on this side of the subcontinent. “It may have become more popular post-partition,” said Dayal. Vernika Awal, a Delhi-based food and culture writer and researcher and brand lead of Ikk Panjab, agrees with Dayal and adds, “Before Partition, Punjab shared a remarkably fluid culinary culture across what are now India and Pakistan. Post-Partition, East Punjab became more associated with vegetarianism, while West Punjab remained more meat-forward. But that divide was never simply religious. Food was shaped by caste, class and occupation, and in an agrarian society, even our relationship with cattle influenced what we ate. Vegetarianism, therefore, was also a question of privilege and social position." When asked if any dishes were introduced to East Punjab post-partition, Awal said, “I think dishes like the Chapli kebab have travelled from the west to east and are finally kind of catching up and people are taking note.” Debunking the Punjabi Meat Myth Both Dayal and Awal revealed that while chicken is considered a staple of Punjabi cuisine, in reality, a lot of Punjabis are vegetarian. “Meat consumption was not simply a question of who ate meat and who didn’t. Even among meat-eating communities, hierarchy determined who got which part of the animal. The more desirable cuts and the offal were distributed along lines of class, caste and access. What you ate, and which part you ate, could tell you exactly where you stood in the social order,” said Awal. Crossing the Border in Bengal In Bengal too, lines were blurred in terms of culinary specialities, with both communities being familiar with each other's flavours. However, dishes like bhorta, shutki maach, and chitol macher muitha became more popular in West Bengal post-partition. How to make Chitol Macher Muitha:

<p>Partition altered lives and created borders. But it also gave Indians a new palate. Dishes were born out of austerity; some were introduced to Indian kitchens as Hindus travelled from West and East Pakistan to India, carrying with them familiar tastes and memories.&nbsp;</p>

India's 80th Independence Day: How Partition’s fractured borders rewrote the subcontinent’s recipe book

<p>India is amongst the fastest growing economies in the world. In fact it is the sixth-largest economy by nominal GDP, with an estimated size of around $4.15 trillion. When measured by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), India stands much higher at the third place globally, trailing only the United States and China.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Similarly, India has grown by leaps and bounds in the field of science and technology since gaining Independence on August 15, 1947 from the British rule.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the global ranking, India stands 3rd in scientific publications and ranks 38th in the Global Innovation Index. The country has rapidly scaled its research output, patent filings, and high-impact contributions across global science, technology, and innovation frameworks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One of India's most visible scientific achievements has been its space programme, led by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Here we take a look at some of the developments and achievements made in Space Science in last two decades made by India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>From 2006 to 2026, India has shown exceptional growth like undertaking lunar, Martian, solar, astronomical and deep-space missions and demonstrating advanced technologies such as autonomous satellite docking.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Chandrayaan-1: India Reaches the Moon — 2008</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A major turning point for India to prove its capabilities in Space Science came on 22 October 2008, when it launched Chandrayaan-1, India's first mission to the Moon, carried 11 scientific instruments from India and international partners.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Other than mapping Moon's chemical, mineralogical and geological characteristics, Chandrayaan-1 detected evidence of hydration/water-related signatures on the lunar surface and near-surface environment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The mission demonstrated that India could conduct sophisticated planetary science too and that its capabilities are not limited to merely launching communication and Earth-observation satellites.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Mars Orbiter Mission - 2013</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On 5 November 2013, ISRO launched the Mars Orbiter Mission or Mangalyaan and became the fourth space agency to successfully place a spacecraft in Mars orbit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The mission was designed for six months but completed seven years in Mars orbit. During its mission the spacecraft studied aspects of the Martian surface, atmosphere, morphology, mineralogy and the Martian exosphere. Also its Mars Colour Camera produced more than 1,100 images for study.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Multi-Wavelength Astronomy — 2015</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On 28 September 2015 India launched Astrostat, an astronomical observatory designed to study celestial objects in multiple wavelengths.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It has helped Indian scientists to investigate phenomena involving stars; galaxies; X-ray sources; black holes; neutron stars and high-energy astronomical events.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Chandrayaan-2 in 2019</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India launched Chandrayaan-2 on 22 July 2019. The mission consisted of an orbiter, lander and rover. Although the lander did not achieve a successful soft landing, the orbiter continued operating and producing valuable scientific data.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Chandrayaan-3: Historic Lunar Landing — 2023</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On 23 August 2023, Chandrayaan-3 successfully soft-landed on the Moon. With this India became the first country to land in the Moon's southern high-latitude region and only the fourth country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Vikram lander and Pragyan rover conducted scientific experiments on the lunar surface for more than 14 Earth days.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

On 23 August 2023, Chandrayaan-3 successfully soft-landed on the Moon. With this India became the first country to land in the Moon's southern high-latitude region.

India is amongst the fastest growing economies in the world. In fact it is the sixth-largest economy by nominal GDP, with an estimated size of around $4.15 trillion. When measured by Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), India stands much higher at the third place globally, trailing only the United States and China. Similarly, India has grown by leaps and bounds in the field of science and technology since gaining Independence on August 15, 1947 from the British rule. According to the global ranking, India stands 3rd in scientific publications and ranks 38th in the Global Innovation Index. The country has rapidly scaled its research output, patent filings, and high-impact contributions across global science, technology, and innovation frameworks. One of India's most visible scientific achievements has been its space programme, led by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Here we take a look at some of the developments and achievements made in Space Science in last two decades made by India. From 2006 to 2026, India has shown exceptional growth like undertaking lunar, Martian, solar, astronomical and deep-space missions and demonstrating advanced technologies such as autonomous satellite docking. Chandrayaan-1: India Reaches the Moon — 2008 A major turning point for India to prove its capabilities in Space Science came on 22 October 2008, when it launched Chandrayaan-1, India's first mission to the Moon, carried 11 scientific instruments from India and international partners. Other than mapping Moon's chemical, mineralogical and geological characteristics, Chandrayaan-1 detected evidence of hydration/water-related signatures on the lunar surface and near-surface environment. The mission demonstrated that India could conduct sophisticated planetary science too and that its capabilities are not limited to merely launching communication and Earth-observation satellites. Mars Orbiter Mission - 2013 On 5 November 2013, ISRO launched the Mars Orbiter Mission or Mangalyaan and became the fourth space agency to successfully place a spacecraft in Mars orbit. The mission was designed for six months but completed seven years in Mars orbit. During its mission the spacecraft studied aspects of the Martian surface, atmosphere, morphology, mineralogy and the Martian exosphere. Also its Mars Colour Camera produced more than 1,100 images for study. Multi-Wavelength Astronomy — 2015 On 28 September 2015 India launched Astrostat, an astronomical observatory designed to study celestial objects in multiple wavelengths. It has helped Indian scientists to investigate phenomena involving stars; galaxies; X-ray sources; black holes; neutron stars and high-energy astronomical events. Chandrayaan-2 in 2019 India launched Chandrayaan-2 on 22 July 2019. The mission consisted of an orbiter, lander and rover. Although the lander did not achieve a successful soft landing, the orbiter continued operating and producing valuable scientific data. Chandrayaan-3: Historic Lunar Landing — 2023 On 23 August 2023, Chandrayaan-3 successfully soft-landed on the Moon. With this India became the first country to land in the Moon's southern high-latitude region and only the fourth country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon. The Vikram lander and Pragyan rover conducted scientific experiments on the lunar surface for more than 14 Earth days.

<p>On 23 August 2023, Chandrayaan-3 successfully soft-landed on the Moon. With this India became the first country to land in the Moon's southern high-latitude region.</p>

80 years of Independence: From Mangalyaan to Chandrayaan-3, India’s rise as a space power

<p>Happy 80th Independence Day! As the nation celebrates its freedom and remembers the legendary freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for their country, people hoist flags on the roofs of their homes, fly colourful kites, and spend time with their loved ones. Adding to the patriotic spirit, here are some timeless Independence Day songs that evoke pride, unity, and love for the nation. From classic anthems like “<i>Maa Tujhe Salaam”</i> to modern patriotic hits like “<i>Suno Gaur Se Duniya Walo</i>,” these tracks perfectly capture the essence of India’s journey and make the celebrations even more memorable.</p><h2>Des Rangila</h2><p>This song is from the 2006 film <i>Fanaa</i>. Composed by Jatin-Lalit and written by Prasoon Joshi, it showcases India’s cultural diversity, natural beauty, and the significance of the tricolour, symbolising the nation’s freedom, unity, and identity. Featuring Kajol, the song is one of the most popular and is filled with pride and love for the nation.</p>

<h2>Teri Mitti</h2><p>This song is from the 2019 film <i>Kesari</i>, which features Akshay Kumar. Sung by B Praak, composed by Arko Pravo Mukherjee, and written by Manoj Muntashir, the track is very popular and highlights modern emotional patriotism. It captures a dying soldier's final thoughts, expressing profound love, gratitude, and a desire to merge into the soil of the motherland.</p>

<h2>Ae Watan Watan</h2><p>This track is from Meghna Gulzar's most acclaimed film, <i>Raazi</i>. The lyrics for this are written by Gulzar, the music is by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, and it is sung by Sunidhi Chauhan and Arijit Singh. It depicts the inner thoughts of an individual who gives it all to his or her nation, even if it costs lives.</p>

<h2>Sandese Aate Hain</h2><p>The song is from the 1997 movie <i>Border</i>, directed by JP Dutta, and is considered an iconic patriotic film. The track is sung by Sonu Nigam and Roopkumar Rathod, composed by Anu Malik, and written by Javed Akhtar. It portrays the homesickness, emotional pain, and deep sacrifice of Indian soldiers who stood their ground while protecting the nation.</p>

<h2>Aisa Des Hai Mera</h2><p>This song is from the movie <i>Veer-Zaara</i>, released in 2004. After it came to notice, it became a much-celebrated patriotic track that captures the soul of India through its culture and traditions. Over the years, the track, sung by Lata Mangeshkar, Udit Narayan, Gurdas Maan, and Pritha Majumder, has secured a special place in every individual's heart and is considered one of the favourites for Independence Day celebrations.</p>

<h2>Maa Tujhe Salaam</h2><p>This song was composed and sung by AR Rahman in 1997 for the golden jubilee of India's independence. Making it an iconic patriotic anthem, it highlights deep maternal love and national pride with its high-energy rhythm and emotional core. The track is from Rahman's album titled Vande Mataram.</p>

<h2>Suno Gaur Se Duniya Walo</h2><p>One of the high-energy songs, "Suno Gaur se Duniya Walo," is from the 1997 film <i>Dus</i>. This is a highly charged patriotic song, sung by Shankar Mahadevan, Udit Narayan, Mahalakshmi Iyer, and Vinod Rathod, and composed by Shankar-Hasaan-Loy. As of 2026, the track is still one of the most played songs on Independence Day and Republic Day.</p>

Happy 80th Independence Day! To celebrate India's freedom and lift the patriotic spirit, here's a look at seven timeless patriotic songs that can perfectly set the mood for the occasion and make your celebrations even more memorable.

Happy 80th Independence Day! As the nation celebrates its freedom and remembers the legendary freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for their country, people hoist flags on the roofs of their homes, fly colourful kites, and spend time with their loved ones. Adding to the patriotic spirit, here are some timeless Independence Day songs that evoke pride, unity, and love for the nation. From classic anthems like “Maa Tujhe Salaam” to modern patriotic hits like “Suno Gaur Se Duniya Walo,” these tracks perfectly capture the essence of India’s journey and make the celebrations even more memorable. Des Rangila This song is from the 2006 film Fanaa. Composed by Jatin-Lalit and written by Prasoon Joshi, it showcases India’s cultural diversity, natural beauty, and the significance of the tricolour, symbolising the nation’s freedom, unity, and identity. Featuring Kajol, the song is one of the most popular and is filled with pride and love for the nation.

<p>Happy 80th Independence Day! To celebrate India's freedom and lift the patriotic spirit, here's a look at seven timeless patriotic songs that can perfectly set the mood for the occasion and make your celebrations even more memorable.</p>

Independence Day 2026: 7 patriotic songs to celebrate India's freedom and spirit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled a seven-point ‘Saptadhara’ reform framework aimed at accelerating India's journey towards Viksit Bharat@2047. The roadmap focuses on sweeping reforms across manufacturing, agriculture, technology, infrastructure, defence, the green and blue economy, and India's growing global influence.


Independence Day 2026: PM Modi said India has moved beyond the 'fragile five' tag

Independence Day 2026: India sets eyes on Visit Bharat by 2047 

Independence Day 2026: PM Modi calls for self-reliance, backs Make in India 

PM Modi: India's journey from 'fragile five' to fastest-growing economy 

As Independence Day sales sweep across India, retailers are locked in an intense discount war. From fashion and electronics to home appliances, brands are offering deep price cuts to attract shoppers. But there’s a catch: a 20% discount often requires around 50% more sales just to maintain profits. So why are companies still betting big on discounts? The answer lies in clearing inventory, boosting cash flow and winning market share in an increasingly competitive retail landscape.


Independence Day discount war: Are brands sacrificing profits for sales? 

Independence Day 2026: PM Modi outlines Viksit Bharat @2047 vision

<p>India’s healthcare story is one of the most remarkable transformations in the 79 years of independence, as a system struggling with severe shortages of doctors, hospitals, and medicines in 1947 has reached a position where digital health, telemedicine, and advanced robotic surgery are the buzzwords.&nbsp;</p><p>When India achieved independence in 1947, it inherited a fragile healthcare infrastructure and a heavy burden of infectious diseases amidst limited access to modern medicine.</p><p>There was the challenge of building a health system almost from the ground up.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The next few decades saw India focus heavily on public health, vaccination campaigns, disease-control programmes and expansion of primary healthcare, which gradually changed the health landscape.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-s-freedom-fighters-from-veerapandiya-kattabomman-to-the-vellore-mutiny-martyrs-india-independence-day-2026-special-india-80-1786696236627"><strong>Tamil Nadu's freedom fighters: From Veerapandiya Kattabomman to the Vellore Mutiny martyrs | India Independence Day 2026 specia</strong>l</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India won major battles when it eradicated smallpox in 1977 and was certified polio-free by the WHO in 2014.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The healthcare expansion accelerated in the 21st century as maternal health, immunisation, rural healthcare, and focus on non-communicable diseases became national programmes. Private hospitals expanded access to advanced diagnostics and specialised treatment. Medical education also grew rapidly and helped increase the number of doctors and specialists needed to cater to the huge population.</p><p>Medical colleges have more than doubled, while 12 new AIIMS have become functional since 2014.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>The severe test during Covid pandemic</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Covid-19 pandemic was a major test of India’s healthcare system. The never-imagined surge of demand for oxygen, disinfectants and personal protective equipment (PPE) kits exposed shortages that were overcome promptly as India sent vaccines, medicines, sanitiser and other essentials to other nations in need. The pandemic demonstrated India’s capacity for large-scale vaccination, pharmaceutical production, medical research and digital health services.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Telemedicine and digitalisation of health records&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a huge change, telemedicine became a critical service during the pandemic. The government’s eSanjeevani platform connected patients and healthcare workers with doctors and specialists without a hospital visit and more than 45 crore patients have benefited through a network spanning health facilities across the country as per March 2026 figures.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-day-2026-kerala-s-freedom-martyrs-from-pazhassi-raja-to-velu-thampi-dalawa-and-hundreds-of-commoners-1786691896015"><strong>India Independence Day 2026: Kerala's freedom martyrs — From Pazhassi Raja to Velu Thampi Dalawa and hundreds of commoners</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Digitalisation of health records has also been a turning point, as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission created a nationwide digital-health framework, with millions of Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts, which allow health records to be linked electronically. Now, all information about a patient is easily available rather than remaining confined to individual hospitals.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The private healthcare sector has grown rapidly alongside public services and even caters to patients from abroad.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India is increasingly embracing robotic-assisted surgery, which is now available across major hospitals and medical centres.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Health insurance for financial protection</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The government also focused on expanding health insurance and financial protection, with the Ayushman Bharat programme launched in 2018 giving<strong>&nbsp;</strong>hospital care access to the economically vulnerable families.</p><p>Over 12 crore hospitalisations were covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme by June 2026.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Seventy-nine years after independence, India’s healthcare story is therefore one of substantial progress, and as it approaches 2047, the strength of its health system will be central to its development ambitions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

When India achieved independence in 1947, it inherited a fragile healthcare infrastructure and a heavy burden of infectious diseases amidst limited access to modern medicine. There was the challenge of building a health system almost from the ground up.

India’s healthcare story is one of the most remarkable transformations in the 79 years of independence, as a system struggling with severe shortages of doctors, hospitals, and medicines in 1947 has reached a position where digital health, telemedicine, and advanced robotic surgery are the buzzwords. When India achieved independence in 1947, it inherited a fragile healthcare infrastructure and a heavy burden of infectious diseases amidst limited access to modern medicine. There was the challenge of building a health system almost from the ground up. The next few decades saw India focus heavily on public health, vaccination campaigns, disease-control programmes and expansion of primary healthcare, which gradually changed the health landscape. Also Read: Tamil Nadu's freedom fighters: From Veerapandiya Kattabomman to the Vellore Mutiny martyrs | India Independence Day 2026 special India won major battles when it eradicated smallpox in 1977 and was certified polio-free by the WHO in 2014. The healthcare expansion accelerated in the 21st century as maternal health, immunisation, rural healthcare, and focus on non-communicable diseases became national programmes. Private hospitals expanded access to advanced diagnostics and specialised treatment. Medical education also grew rapidly and helped increase the number of doctors and specialists needed to cater to the huge population. Medical colleges have more than doubled, while 12 new AIIMS have become functional since 2014. The severe test during Covid pandemic The Covid-19 pandemic was a major test of India’s healthcare system. The never-imagined surge of demand for oxygen, disinfectants and personal protective equipment (PPE) kits exposed shortages that were overcome promptly as India sent vaccines, medicines, sanitiser and other essentials to other nations in need. The pandemic demonstrated India’s capacity for large-scale vaccination, pharmaceutical production, medical research and digital health services. Telemedicine and digitalisation of health records In a huge change, telemedicine became a critical service during the pandemic. The government’s eSanjeevani platform connected patients and healthcare workers with doctors and specialists without a hospital visit and more than 45 crore patients have benefited through a network spanning health facilities across the country as per March 2026 figures. Also Read: India Independence Day 2026: Kerala's freedom martyrs — From Pazhassi Raja to Velu Thampi Dalawa and hundreds of commoners Digitalisation of health records has also been a turning point, as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission created a nationwide digital-health framework, with millions of Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts, which allow health records to be linked electronically. Now, all information about a patient is easily available rather than remaining confined to individual hospitals. The private healthcare sector has grown rapidly alongside public services and even caters to patients from abroad. India is increasingly embracing robotic-assisted surgery, which is now available across major hospitals and medical centres. Health insurance for financial protection The government also focused on expanding health insurance and financial protection, with the Ayushman Bharat programme launched in 2018 giving hospital care access to the economically vulnerable families. Over 12 crore hospitalisations were covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme by June 2026. Seventy-nine years after independence, India’s healthcare story is therefore one of substantial progress, and as it approaches 2047, the strength of its health system will be central to its development ambitions.

<p>When India achieved independence in 1947, it inherited a fragile healthcare infrastructure and a heavy burden of infectious diseases amidst limited access to modern medicine. There was the challenge of building a health system almost from the ground up.</p>

Independence Day 2026: India’s health journey, from scarcity to smart care with telemedicine and robotic surgery

On India's 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to outline India's roadmap towards Viksit Bharat@2047, with a focus on the country's development, growth and long-term vision as India approaches the centenary of independence. PM Modi called for a collective effort to build a Viksit Bharat by India’s 100th Independence Day. He highlighted the vision of a stronger, developed and self-reliant India, urging citizens to contribute to the nation’s progress and help shape its future.


Independence Day 2026: First-time rendition of 'Vande Mataram' at Red Fort

Independence Day 2026: PM Modi says we must build a Viksit Bharat by the 100th Independence Day

Independence Day 2026: PM Modi says India has been growing at a faster pace over the last 12 years 

As India's 80th Independence Day approaches, here's a look at some rare photos from the nation’s first celebration as a free country. From historic speeches and flag-hoisting ceremonies to Jawaharlal Nehru’s first speech. 

<p>As India's 80th Independence Day approaches, here's a look at some rare photos from the nation’s first celebration as a free country. From historic speeches and flag-hoisting ceremonies to Jawaharlal Nehru’s first speech.&nbsp;</p>

Independence Day 2026: 10 rare photos from India's first Independence Day celebrations

From All India Radio broadcasts to live streaming on digital platforms, India’s Independence Day coverage has witnessed a major evolution in the last 80 years.

<p>From All India Radio broadcasts to live streaming on digital platforms, India’s Independence Day coverage has witnessed a major evolution in the last 80 years.</p>

From Radio to YouTube: How Indians have watched the Independence Day ceremony over the years

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on August 15, revisit the bravery and courage of freedom fighters with the patriotic films listed below.

<p>As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on August 15, revisit the bravery and courage of freedom fighters with the patriotic films listed below.</p>

Independence Day 2026: 10 patriotic movies to watch on Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar and other OTT platforms

As Independence Day 2026 approaches, we celebrate the Bollywood stars who brought India’s freedom fighters to life on screen, sharing their courage and legacy with the world

<p>As Independence Day 2026 approaches, we celebrate the Bollywood stars who brought India’s freedom fighters to life on screen, sharing their courage and legacy with the world.</p>

Independence Day 2026: Bollywood stars who brought India’s legendary freedom fighters to life on big screen

As India marks its 80th Independence Day, revisit forgotten chapters of the freedom struggle that reveal hidden stories of resistance, courage and sacrifice from across the country in a fresh perspective.

<p>As India marks its 80th Independence Day, revisit forgotten chapters of the freedom struggle that reveal hidden stories of resistance, courage and sacrifice from across the country in a fresh perspective.</p>

Independence Day 2026: 9 lesser-known facts about India’s freedom struggle

<p>On the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day on August 15, for the first time ever, the national song Vande Mataram will be sung from the Red Fort ramparts. In the aftermath of the student-led protest against NEET paper leak, the government will also be putting young Indians and Gen Z at the centre of this year's ceremony.</p><p>Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said Monday (Aug 10) that the move carries added significance as 2026 marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, which played a major role in mobilising Indians during the freedom struggle.</p><p>The song will be rendered when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the Red Fort. He will then unfurl the national flag and deliver his Independence Day address.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/snipers-nsg-anti-drone-systems-inside-delhi-s-massive-red-fort-security-plan-ahead-of-independence-day-1786270573200"><strong>Inside Delhi’s massive Red Fort security plan ahead of Independence Day</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Youth-centric celebrations this year</strong></h2><p>This year's celebrations will carry the theme of "Yuva Shakti", highlighting the contribution of young Indians towards the government's vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.</p><p>As part of the 150-year commemoration, around 2,500 NCC cadets and MY Bharat volunteers will assemble on Gyanpath opposite the Red Fort to form the words "Vande Mataram". An Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter will also fly over the venue carrying a banner marking 150 years of the national song and shower flower petals over the gathering.</p><p>Young achievers will have a prominent presence at the ceremony. Nineteen Indian medal winners from the 2026 International Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematical Olympiads will be seated on the Red Fort ramparts.</p><p>Around 5,000 special guests have been invited, including young innovators, entrepreneurs, startup founders, skilled workers, farmers, artisans, sanitation workers and beneficiaries of government schemes.</p><p>More than 1,500 guests from Delhi representing different states and Union territories will attend in traditional attire, showcasing India's cultural diversity.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-will-influence-our-journey-towards-a-viksit-bharat-pm-modi-addresses-students-at-iit-delhi-1786189097812"><strong>'You will influence our journey towards a Viksit Bharat': PM Modi to students</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Red Fort enclosures get new names</strong></h2><p>The government has also changed the naming of seating enclosures at the Red Fort. Instead of VIP-centric names, the enclosures will be named after major Indian lakes. The move follows the river-themed enclosures used during this year's Republic Day celebrations and is intended to highlight water conservation.</p><p>Around 600 winners of Defence Ministry and MyGov quizzes and competitions will also attend. The contests covered subjects including artificial intelligence, Viksit Bharat, India's space and technological achievements, nuclear technology and the freedom movement.</p><h2><strong>Metro services from 4 am</strong></h2><p>Extensive arrangements have been made for visitors and invitees. Twenty-five cloakrooms will operate across six locations, while 200 volunteers and 20 wheelchairs will be available at the venue.</p><p>Delhi Metro services will begin at 4 am on August 15. Invitees will be able to travel free using QR codes issued with their e-invitations.</p><p>Authorities are also preparing for possible rain by cleaning drainage and sewage systems around the Red Fort.</p><p>After the ceremony, NCC cadets and MY Bharat volunteers will conduct a cleanliness drive to clear waste from the venue.</p><p>Meanwhile, military and security force bands are performing at 343 locations across the country between August 8 and 15 to mark the anniversary. Bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, NCC and several central armed police and security forces are participating.</p>

For the first time, Vande Mataram will be sung from the Red Fort as India marks its 80th Independence Day. With Gen Z and young achievers taking centre stage, this year's celebrations will have a distinctly youth-focused theme.

On the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day on August 15, for the first time ever, the national song Vande Mataram will be sung from the Red Fort ramparts. In the aftermath of the student-led protest against NEET paper leak, the government will also be putting young Indians and Gen Z at the centre of this year's ceremony. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said Monday (Aug 10) that the move carries added significance as 2026 marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, which played a major role in mobilising Indians during the freedom struggle. The song will be rendered when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the Red Fort. He will then unfurl the national flag and deliver his Independence Day address. Also read | Inside Delhi’s massive Red Fort security plan ahead of Independence Day Youth-centric celebrations this year This year's celebrations will carry the theme of "Yuva Shakti", highlighting the contribution of young Indians towards the government's vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. As part of the 150-year commemoration, around 2,500 NCC cadets and MY Bharat volunteers will assemble on Gyanpath opposite the Red Fort to form the words "Vande Mataram". An Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter will also fly over the venue carrying a banner marking 150 years of the national song and shower flower petals over the gathering. Young achievers will have a prominent presence at the ceremony. Nineteen Indian medal winners from the 2026 International Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematical Olympiads will be seated on the Red Fort ramparts. Around 5,000 special guests have been invited, including young innovators, entrepreneurs, startup founders, skilled workers, farmers, artisans, sanitation workers and beneficiaries of government schemes. More than 1,500 guests from Delhi representing different states and Union territories will attend in traditional attire, showcasing India's cultural diversity. Also read | 'You will influence our journey towards a Viksit Bharat': PM Modi to students Red Fort enclosures get new names The government has also changed the naming of seating enclosures at the Red Fort. Instead of VIP-centric names, the enclosures will be named after major Indian lakes. The move follows the river-themed enclosures used during this year's Republic Day celebrations and is intended to highlight water conservation. Around 600 winners of Defence Ministry and MyGov quizzes and competitions will also attend. The contests covered subjects including artificial intelligence, Viksit Bharat, India's space and technological achievements, nuclear technology and the freedom movement. Metro services from 4 am Extensive arrangements have been made for visitors and invitees. Twenty-five cloakrooms will operate across six locations, while 200 volunteers and 20 wheelchairs will be available at the venue. Delhi Metro services will begin at 4 am on August 15. Invitees will be able to travel free using QR codes issued with their e-invitations. Authorities are also preparing for possible rain by cleaning drainage and sewage systems around the Red Fort. After the ceremony, NCC cadets and MY Bharat volunteers will conduct a cleanliness drive to clear waste from the venue. Meanwhile, military and security force bands are performing at 343 locations across the country between August 8 and 15 to mark the anniversary. Bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, NCC and several central armed police and security forces are participating.

<p>For the first time, Vande Mataram will be sung from the Red Fort as India marks its 80th Independence Day. With Gen Z and young achievers taking centre stage, this year's celebrations will have a distinctly youth-focused theme.</p>

Vande Mataram to echo from Red Fort for first time as Gen Z takes centre stage on Independence Day

The Indian flag's colours carry deep symbolism. From saffron to white and green, all three colours signify India's values, traditions and culture. Let's have a look at what these colours mean for our nation.

<p>The Indian flag's colours carry deep symbolism. From saffron to white and green, all three colours signify India's values, traditions and culture. Let's have a look at what these colours mean for our nation.</p>

Indian flag colours explained: What saffron, white, green and chakra signify