A few days back we have happily hoisted our Tiranga at the Red Fort to celebrate our 70th Independence day. We all know about the massive struggles our dear leaders have gone through to get this freedom. Apart from all these things, there are certain facts that are lesser-known to people.

• The date ‘August 15' was chosen by the Last Viceroy and first Governor General of India Lord Mountbatten as it was the same day in 1945 that Japan surrendered to the Allied Forces at the end of the World War II.

• August 15 is celebrated as Independence Day in not only India but also in five other countries – Bahrain, North Korea, South Korea, Liechtenstein and Republic of Congo.

• We all know the fact that Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India. But he was not always the first choice. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had the majority of votes but Nehru didn't want to play second in command to anyone. Mahatma Gandhi had a soft spot for Nehru he requested Sardar Patel to step down.

 • India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was considered as a global style icon. His popular ‘Nehru' jacket earned him a place in Vogue magazine. 

• During Independence, India didn't have any National Anthem. Jana Gana Mana' was written by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911 and was officially adopted in 1950.

• On behalf of all the women of India, Free India's Parliament was represented by Hansa Mehta. 

• Indian rupee in 1947 was Re 1 = $ 1. Currently, Rs 64.08 = $ 1.

 • By law, the only material to be used for making flag is ‘khadi'. Khadi Development and Village Industries Commission holds the right to manufacture the flag and allocates it to regional groups. Flying a flag made of any other material is punishable under law with three years imprisonment and a fine.

 Hope  I shared a useful topic with you. Jai hind!