Prime Minister Narendra Modi stands for the national anthem after hoisting the national flag during the 79th Independence Day celebration at the Red Fort, in New Delhi, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025. (Photo/PTI)India celebrates its 80th Independence Day today, Saturday, August 15, 2026, marking another milestone in its journey since gaining Independence from British rule.Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi. Celebrations in the national capital will begin with the unfurling of the tiranga, or the national flag, at the historic Red Fort. He will then address the nation from its ramparts. PM Modi’s annual Independence Day speech – his 13th – is expected to set out the government’s priorities and touch upon key national issues.Story continues below this ad2026 Independence Day celebrations will also mark the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. India’s national song will be sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort for the first time in the country’s history.“Yuva Shakti”, or youth power, will be another key theme of the 80th Independence Day celebrations, with young Indians and their contribution to the country’s development set to be in focus.President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation on the eve of Independence Day, speaking about students as the architects of India’s future. President Murmu’s address came ahead of the main Independence Day celebrations at Delhi’s Red Fort on Saturday morning.Independence Day celebrations will also be held across the country, with flag-hoisting ceremonies and events in states and Union Territories. Follow The Indian Express Independence Day 2026 live coverage for the latest updates from the Red Fort, key highlights from PM Modi’s Independence Day speech, reactions from political leaders and celebrations from across India. We will also bring you the latest news, photos and videos from the 80th Independence Day celebrations throughout the day.Live UpdatesAug 15, 2026 07:10 AM IST'Remembering countless freedom fighters who ended colonial rule': PM ModiOn the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X: "Warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day. We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule. Their dreams continue to inspire us as we work together to build a Viksit Bharat."Warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day.We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule. Their dreams continue to inspire us as we work together to build a Viksit Bharat.…— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2026https://platform.x.com/widgets.js© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:Independence DayNarendra Modi