August 15, 1947: How Delhi, Lahore, Calcutta and Karachi saw freedom

On the night of August 15, 1947, thousands gathered across India to commemorate the nation's independence from British rule. In the bustling capital city of Delhi, 300 flag-raising ceremonies were held, including one at the Central Hall of Parliament, where Jawaharlal Nehru delivered his historic speech pledging allegiance to the nation and its people. The event was marked by both excitement and somber reflection, as many were aware that independence would also lead to the tragic partition of the country.

In Mumbai, the city's mayor hosted a grand dinner at the Taj Mahal Hotel to celebrate the occasion. Meanwhile, in the holy city of Varanasi, a Muslim leader unfurled the national flag at a temple, symbolizing religious harmony amidst the celebrations.

However, not all Indians felt elation upon the arrival of independence. In many cities, confusion, anxiety, and anger prevailed. Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, in their book "Freedom at Midnight" (1975), describe how the capital city of Delhi, with its Connaught Circus and Old Delhi's narrow alleys draped in tricolor lights, was brightly lit but also tinged with complex emotions.

As independence celebrations unfolded across India, each city had its unique experience. In Karachi, which had recently become the capital of Pakistan, the sudden change in status saw a flurry of festivities, despite the city being underprepared with no government offices or adequate stationery. Meanwhile, in Calcutta, independence celebrations coincided with a remarkable reduction in communal tensions, thanks to the easing of violence that had been rampant in the city since Direct Action Day in 1946.

In Hyderabad, the princely state resisted integration with India, creating a unique and defiant atmosphere during the celebrations.