A walk down memory lane to the school celebrations that made Independence Day our favourite day of the year.
Independence Day in school was always one of the most cherished occasions of our childhood. No classes, no textbooks, just a day devoted entirely to celebrating and honouring our country. From the flag-hoisting ceremonies and parade to patriotic songs, dances and the pride of wearing tricolour ribbons or badges, everything felt just right on that day. Every performance, speech, and activity became a lesson in understanding the true essence of freedom, especially for a generation that only hears stories of the struggle but lives in a free nation. This Independence Day, let’s take a trip down memory lane and relive those school-day traditions that made the celebration so special.
After the welcome speech, the first event of the day was always the flag hoisting ceremony. We watched our principal or the chief guest proudly unfurl the tricolour, and together sang the national anthem. It was a moment that filled everyone with pride and unity.
Some of the best voices in our school would come together to fill the air with patriotic songs. From ‘Vande Mataram’ to ‘Saare Jahan Se Achha’, each melody echoed through the grounds. Even today, those tunes have the power to give us goosebumps and take us back to those moments.
The cultural performances were always a highlight of the day, loved not only by the students on stage but equally by those in the audience. Colourful dance performances on patriotic songs, with ‘Des Rangila’ being almost a constant favourite, brought energy and cheer to the celebrations. Alongside, dance dramas and skits portraying India’s freedom struggle reminded us of the sacrifices and courage of our national heroes, leaving everyone proud.
When we were juniors, we would watch our seniors march with discipline, and later, it was our turn to be a part of that parade. Stepping in perfect unison, we saluted the tricolour, each step a symbol of respect and devotion to the nation. The sound of synchronized footsteps and the sight of the flag waving high created a moment that made us feel truly connected to the spirit of Independence Day.
It was a cherished custom on Independence Day for every student to proudly pin a tricolour badge or ribbon to their uniform. That small splash of saffron, white, and green instantly made us feel like active participants in the day’s celebration.
We can’t deny that one of the most awaited moments of Independence Day was receiving those laddoos or jalebis after the ceremony. The excitement of the celebrations seemed to double when the sweets were distributed. Sharing those treats with friends, laughing and chatting, felt like the perfect way to end the day, a simple yet joyful tradition that made the celebration complete.
