India will mark its 79th Independence Day on Friday, August 15, 2025, with grand celebrations at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation after hoisting the Tricolour, continuing the tradition that has been followed since the country’s first Independence Day in 1947.
Ceremony timings and schedule
The official programme is expected to begin around 7:30 am IST, starting with the ceremonial 21-gun salute. This will be followed by cultural performances, school children’s displays, and a spectacular aerial show by the Indian Air Force (IAF). The entire event will be live-streamed on DD News, PMO’s YouTube channel, pmindia.gov.in, and the NIC’s Independence Day portal for global viewers.
Indian Air Force takes the lead this year
As per the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the Indian Air Force is this year’s coordinating service for the celebrations. The flag hoisting will be assisted by Flying Officer Rashika Sharma, with the Air Force band playing the National Anthem. In a historic first, 11 Agniveer Vayu musicians will join the band for the anthem performance.
Aerial salute and flower shower
Immediately after the National Flag is hoisted, two Mi-17 IAF helicopters will shower flower petals over the Red Fort. One helicopter will carry the Indian national flag, while the other will bear a flag symbolising the success of Operation Sindoor- a recent milestone celebrated as part of the “Naya Bharat” vision.
Operation Sindoor theme at Red Fort
In honour of Operation Sindoor’s achievements, the Gyanpath view cutter will feature the operation’s logo surrounded by floral decorations. Invitation cards for the event also display the logo alongside a watermark of the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, representing India’s progress and engineering excellence.
Special guests from across the nation
This year, around 5,000 special invitees will witness the ceremony, including more than 1,500 people from different states and union territories dressed in vibrant traditional attire. These guests represent India’s cultural diversity and are part of the government’s initiative to make the Independence Day celebrations more inclusive.
Security and arrangements
Security in the capital has been tightened, with multi-layered arrangements, anti-drone systems, and surveillance in place to ensure a smooth and safe event. Roads around the Red Fort will have restricted access during the morning hours, and special passes have been issued to attendees.
Independence day significance
Independence Day not only commemorates India’s freedom from colonial rule in 1947 but also serves as a reminder of the country’s progress, unity, and resilience. The 79th celebration will blend tradition with modernity-from age-old flag hoisting rituals to contemporary military displays- symbolising India’s march towards its Viksit Bharat (Developed India) vision for 2047.
