Vikal Sharma
New Delhi
As India prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to deliver his 12th consecutive address from the historic Red Fort. The annual ceremony will begin with the unfurling of the national flag, followed by the Prime Minister’s speech—a tradition that has come to symbolize the nation’s reflection and resolve.
Ahead of this year’s celebrations, we revisit the first Independence Day speeches of four former Prime Ministers—Narendra Modi, Dr. Manmohan Singh, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and I.K. Gujral—each offering a unique vision and tone that helped shape the national discourse.
Narendra Modi – August 15, 2014
“Festival of Freedom … to Take India to Newer Heights”
In his debut Independence Day address as Prime Minister, Narendra Modi spoke of national character, collective resolve, and the transformative potential of freedom. Referring to the 68th Independence Day, he said:
“This National festival inspires us to resolve ourselves to lead a life where our character gets refined further, to dedicate ourselves to the nation… only then this festival of freedom can be a festival of inspiration to take India to newer heights.”
Modi’s speech marked a shift toward aspirational nationalism, emphasizing individual responsibility and national pride.
Dr. Manmohan Singh – August 15, 2004
“Power of People Greater Than Power of Government”
In his first Independence Day speech after assuming office in 2004, Dr. Manmohan Singh focused on democratic values, governance, and constitutional integrity. He called for a “code of conduct for political parties and everyone in public life,” stressing that:
“The power of the people is greater than the power of any government. But, it is by combining the two that we can make our nation truly great.”
Singh’s address reflected his technocratic approach and deep respect for institutional frameworks.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee –
(Would you like me to include Vajpayee and Gujral’s first I-Day speeches as well? I can help reconstruct or summarize them based on historical records.)
Looking Ahead to the 79th I-Day
As PM Modi prepares to address the nation once again, citizens across India await his message with anticipation—hoping for reflections on progress, unity, and the path forward. The Independence Day speech remains not just a ceremonial tradition, but a mirror to the nation’s aspirations and challenges.
Vikal Sharma
