India celebrates its Independence Day on August 15, as it marks 75 years since it gained independence from the British Empire.
India's prime minister, Narendra Modi, 72, welcomed the historic day by unfurling the national flag and receiving a 21-gun salute. In his speech, which was broadcast live to millions of people in India, Mr Modi called for an end to misogyny and said that respecting women was key to growing as a country.
Mr Modi also used his speech to call for an end to corruption and neoptism in India, as well as announcing the introduction of 5G mobile services.
The Prime Minister said that India will aim to become a developed nation in the next 25 years, saying, “It’s a big resolution, and we should work towards it with all our might.”
As 1.2 billion people mark the national holiday, we take a look at the story behind India's independence.
How long was India under British rule?
British colonisation of India began in the second half of the 18th century when the English East India Company took control of Bengal and eventually other parts of India.
The British Crown established its rule in India in 1858, ending a century of control by the East India Company.
India proved to be hugely profitable for the British because it was rich in jewels, spices and textiles.
The country also became the backbone of Britain's military power, with Indian troops playing a key role in helping control the empire.
How did India gain independence from the British Empire?
After more than 200 years under British control, India regained its independence in 1947.
Years before, movements towards reform were being made by the Indian National Congress, particularly after the increased poverty and famine that accompanied British imperialism.
When World War II began in 1939, Britain needed India's manpower. To secure India's support, Britain was willing to hand over its political power in exchange for cooperation, but the Indian political parties rejected such proposals.
This led the Indian National Congress to commence the “Quit India” movement, which led to the imprisonment of the entire party's leadership, including Mahatma Gandhi.
Further unrest followed after the war and Lord Louis Mountbatten was given until 1948 to grant independence.
This date was brought forward and in 1947 and on August 15 of that year, the Indian Independence Bill took effect.
After the signing of the Independence Bill, it was agreed India would be divided into two separate states, Pakistan (with a Muslim majority) and India (with a Hindu majority).
The partition caused the displacement of 14 million people and incited widespread violence, creating a historically tense relationship between the two states.
How is Indian Independence Day celebrated?
As well as a host of religious celebrations, there will be pageants, parades and flag-flying across India.
Many people will also be dressed in the nation's colours of orange, green and white.
A host of celebrations will also be taking place in the UK and all over the world to mark this historic day.
