India’s road to independence stretched over years, with historic moments occurring at landmarks across the nation. As the country prepares to celebrate Independence Day tomorrow, we’ve put together a tour through some of the most iconic sites related to the Independence movement from Google Maps and the Cultural Institute.
Trace the footsteps of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, from his oath at Parliament and speech on the country’s ‘Tryst with Destiny’, to the Red Fort, where he unfurled the Tricolor on 15 August 1947; and where each year, subsequent Prime Ministers have followed the tradition of unfurling the national flag and delivering an address to the nation.
Lahori Gate is the main gate to the Red Fort and named after its orientation towards the city of Lahore
Go right inside the complex and learn more about the Mughal Citadel — from the Chhatta Chowk markets and Naqqar Khana drum house, to the gracious arches of Diwan-e-Aam — with a virtual exhibit from the Cultural Institute.
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| Diwan-e-Aam, Archaeological Survey of India and the Nehru Memorial Museum & Library |
You could also visit the majestic Aga Khan Palace. Built in 1892, it served as a prison for Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi from 1942. Or the historical Sabarmati Ashram, his residence for over 12 years and from where he led the Dandi march — also known as the Salt Satyagraha — of non-violent protest in March 1930.
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| Aga Khan Palace, Archaeological Survey of India |
Or take a tour of the dreaded Cellular Jail in Port Blair, where many freedom fighters were imprisoned, or Jallianwala Bagh, the site of a tragic massacre of peaceful civilian protesters in 1919.
Cellular Jail, Google Maps
As we prepare to mark the 69th anniversary of India’s Independence, there are a range of images, photos and virtual tours you can take with Google Maps and the Cultural Institute — including a special collection of images and artifacts from the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library.
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| Independence Day Celebrations 1947, Nehru Memorial Museum and Library |
Happy Independence Day! Jai Hind!
Posted by Suren Ruhela, Director, Google Maps