Only flag-hoisting? How about a 'dangal'?

Fireworks, joyrides, music and a grand flag hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort attended by thousands — back in the 50s and 60s, Independence Day celebrations were a big deal in New Delhi. Plans were made days in advance as residents from across the capital dressed in their finery and assembled at the historical site to make merry. The lawns of the fort became a fair ground, with rides and food stalls offering delicious old Delhi fare. 

“All roads remained open and there were no restrictions on movement. People started reaching India Gate by 5am, and spent the day there with their family and friends,” said Mohammad Sultan, a retired government employee. 

There were also sporting events such as dangal (traditional wrestling competition), cock and sheep fights, tonga race and kite-flying, remembers Virender Sachdeva, who lived in Chandni Chowk for 38 years. With TV still a luxury, Sachdeva said, this was the only way most citizens could celebrate Independence Day.  

Needless to say, the idea of terror threats was alien and security ‘restrictions’ were minimal. Prof Vijay Kumar Malhotra, who was chief executive councillor (chief minister in protocol) of Delhi during 1967-72 and witnessed Independence Day celebrations in the Capital since 1948, said it was after the Emergency that security forces began to be deployed on Independence Day since Indira Gadhi, then PM, feared that she would be attacked by those who opposed her.

“After her assassination in 1984, security arrangements further changed. Bullet proof glass was placed on the dais in front of the prime minister, and more and more security forces deployed in and around Red Fort and across the city,” he added. The area where rides and food stalls used to be put up was also fortified.