Bengaluru, Karnataka: South Indian states are celebrating the 79th Independence Day with a blend of patriotic fervor, cultural showcases, and a focus on development. Each state marked the occasion with its own unique flavor, while upholding the national spirit.
Karnataka
In Bengaluru, the main event took place at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah hoisted the national flag and reviewed a grand parade. The celebration featured over 1,150 police and armed forces personnel, as well as an equal number of students who presented cultural performances highlighting Karnataka’s history and contemporary achievements, as reported by The Logical Indian. For the first time, public entry to the event was facilitated through an Aadhaar-linked e-pass system to ensure security. In a special gesture, the Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru is also set to open its gates to the public for three days from August 16 to 18, allowing citizens to explore its historical architecture and gardens.
Tamil Nadu
In Chennai, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin hoisted the national flag at Fort St. George. The state’s celebrations are marked by a focus on security, with a five-tier security blanket placed around the fort and 9,000 police personnel deployed across the city. On the eve of Independence Day, Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi’s customary address highlighted what he termed as “four very serious challenges” facing the state, including educational and social discrimination, drug abuse, and a rise in sexual offenses.
Telangana
Hyderabad’s Independence Day celebrations were held at the historic Golconda Fort. According to The Hindu, special preparations were made to make the event rainproof, with waterproof tents set up to cover the inner courtyard due to a forecast of heavy rainfall. Over 800 police personnel were deployed for security at the venue, which was expected to host more than 5,000 guests, including dignitaries and schoolchildren.
Andhra Pradesh
In Andhra Pradesh, the focus was on honoring distinguished service. The Times of India reported that two senior police officers were selected for the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service, with an additional 20 police and three prisons department personnel receiving the Medal for Meritorious Service. These awards, announced on the eve of Independence Day, acknowledge extraordinary courage and commitment to public safety.
Kerala
Similar to other states, Kerala is celebrating Independence Day with traditional flag-hoisting ceremonies and parades. While specific details on the main event in Thiruvananthapuram are awaited, local media has been covering national-level developments and the patriotic mood across the state. The celebrations in Kerala, like in the rest of South India, are a mix of official ceremonies and community-level events, where people gather to express their patriotism and remember the nation’s struggle for freedom.
South India Joins National Celebrations on 79th Independence Day.
