**Bhubaneswar: ** When India celebrates its 72nd years of independence got from the Britishers, there are many facts which are interesting as well as surprising. Some facts may even baffle you but it is true. World’s largest democracy has a long and extensive history but there are many such bits of information which is still unknown.
1: The Indian National Anthem
Did you know that the Indian National Anthem, which is sung on every patriotic occasion, was originally drafted by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911 to pay homage to King George V. During Independence, India didn’t have any National Anthem. Jana Gana Mana’ was officially adopted in 1950.
2: The Date ‘August 15’
Did you know that 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.
3: Nehru Was Not Our First Elected Prime Minister
Yes, it is true. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was elected as the Prime Minister in the elections held fair and square. But Nehru did not want to be second in command to anyone. As Gandhi had a soft corner for Nehru, Sardar Patel was asked to step down.
4: The Value Of Rupee In 1947
The exchange rate on August 15, 1947 was Re 1 = $ 1. Currently, $ 1 = Rs 70.08
5: Nehru- A Global Fashion Icon
India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was considered as a global style icon. He was pictured in the famous ‘Vogue’ magazine wearing his traditional and popular ‘Nehru jacket’ which became a fashion trend in the west.
6: M.Karunanidhi, First CM To Unfurl National Flag On I-Day
Until 1973, Governors unfurled the flag in states on I-day but in 1974, M. Karunanidhi took up the issue with then central government and became the first chief minister to hoist the flag on I-Day.
7: Five Other Countries Celebrate Aug 15 As Independence Day
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.
And here’s a bonus fact for you: You will also be surprised to know that India has never invaded any country in her last 1,00,000 years of history. It is a peace loving country in true spirit.
Also Read: [Odisha CM Launches Numero Uno ‘Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana’ From Independence Day](https://www.ommcomnews.com/public/odisha-cm-launches-numero-uno-biju-swasthya-kalyan-yojana-from-independence-day)
