
Aug 15, 2026
✦Hindustan Times
Before August 15, January 26 was supposed to be India's Independence Day: The story behind the dates
Before August 15, India celebrated Independence Day on January 26. The Indian National Congress fixed this date in 1930 to demand Purna Swaraj. While British rule continued, the party observed this day throughout the freedom struggle. Later, January 26, 1950, became Republic Day when the Constitution came into force.