Independence Day 2020: What Happened On This Day In 1947? Rare Photos Of India's First Independence Day Celebrations

In this picture taken 15 August 1947, crowds of revellers gather to celebrate independence from Britain around Rasina Hill in New Delhi. India celebrates its 74th Independence Day this year.

British Governor-General Lord Mountbatten rides in a carriage alongside Lady Edwina Mountbatten. They arrived in a stagecoach driven by six horses.

In this handout picture taken 15 August 1947, British Governor-General Lord Mountbatten rides in a carriage alongside Lady Edwina Mountbatten prior to witnessing the raising of the Indian tricolour for the first time at India Gate in New Delhi.

In this file photograph from the Directorate of Public Relations, Governor General Lord Mountbatten (C) salutes the national flag as it is hoisted at India Gate in New Delhi, 15 August 1947 as Lady Edwina (2R) and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru (R) look on.

Crowds of revellers gather to celebrate independence from Britain around Rasina Hill in New Delhi. Over half a million people had poured in to watch the event which led to the abandoning of the scheduled drill and march past. Indians across the country gathered in large numbers and celebrated the day.

India's First Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru addresses parliament after Independence and partition 1947. He gave the famous 'Tryst With Destiny' speech on this occasion. It is considered one of the greatest speeches of the 20th century.