Independence Day 2025: Modi’s 12th Flag Hoist Nears Record

Independence Day 2025: Modi’s 12th Flag Hoist at Red Fort

Independence Day 2025 is going to be a big moment for India. On August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the tricolor at the historic Red Fort for the 12th time in a row. This event is more than just a ceremony — it’s a tradition that connects the nation’s past, present, and future. Millions of Indians will watch as the flag rises high, reminding us of our freedom and unity. This year, all eyes are on Modi as he moves closer to a historic record.

Every year on 15 August, millions of Indians wait for one powerful moment — when the Prime Minister of India hoists the tricolor from the historic Red Fort in Delhi. It’s not just a ceremony; it’s a tradition that carries the hopes, pride, and unity of the nation.

This year’s Independence Day will be extra special. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hoist the national flag at the Red Fort for the 12th consecutive time, placing him closer than ever to breaking one of the most respected records in Indian political history — the number of times a PM has performed this honor.

The Tradition Behind Red Fort Flag Hoisting

When India gained independence in 1947, our first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, walked up the steps of the Red Fort and hoisted the tricolor for the very first time. That moment wasn’t just about marking freedom; it was a promise to every Indian that the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle would never be forgotten.

Since then, every PM of India has continued this tradition — unfurling the flag and addressing the nation on 15 August. It’s more than protocol; it’s a connection between the leader of the nation and its people.

Which PM Hoisted the Tricolor the Most?

If flag hoisting was a cricket scoreboard, Pandit Nehru would still be leading. From 1947 to 1964, he hoisted the tricolor 17 times — a record no one has broken yet.

Right behind him is Indira Gandhi, who proudly unfurled the national flag 16 times during her tenure.

And now, PM Modi is closing in. By the end of Independence Day 2025, Modi will have done it 12 times — already ahead of Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Here’s the scoreboard of history:

The PMs Who Never Got the Chance

While most Prime Ministers have experienced this honor, two leaders never did —

1. Gulzarilal Nanda (served as acting PM)
2. Chandra Shekhar (due to the timing of his tenure)

Even I.K. Gujral got the opportunity just once during his short term.

PM Modi’s Independence Day Speeches — Record-Breaking Moments

If there’s one thing PM Modi is known for on Independence Day, besides his saffron-tinged turban choices, it’s his long and passionate speeches.

In fact, he holds the record for the longest-ever speech from the Red Fort — a whopping 98 minutes in 2024. Before that, the record was shared by Jawaharlal Nehru (72 minutes in 1947) and I.K. Gujral (71 minutes in 1997).

Here’s a quick look at PM Modi’s speech durations over the years:

Why PM Modi’s Speeches Stand Out

Unlike some past PMs who kept things formal and short, Modi often speaks directly to the common people — sharing personal stories, quoting historical figures, and announcing major government plans.

For many Indians, watching the PM’s speech live is as much about hearing new schemes and policies as it is about feeling a sense of pride.

More Than Just Ceremony — Why This Matters

When the Prime Minister hoists the tricolor at the Red Fort, it’s not just about marking the day on the calendar. It’s about unity, progress, and vision.

1. Unity: Millions watch live, from remote villages to cities abroad.
2. Progress: Announcements often shape India’s future policies.
3. Vision: It’s a moment when the leader outlines the country’s roadmap.

Will PM Modi Break Nehru’s Record?

With his 12th flag hoisting in 2025, PM Modi will only need five more Independence Days to match Nehru’s record of 17. Given that he’s still in office and could serve longer, the possibility of him becoming the all-time leader in Red Fort flag hoistings is very real.

If that happens, it will be another historical moment — marking a journey from Gujarat’s CM to India’s longest-serving Independence Day PM at the Red Fort.

Independence Day 2025 — What to Expect

While the exact speech theme remains a surprise, expect references to:

1. India’s economic growth and development
2. National security updates
3. New initiatives for youth, farmers, and women
4. Global recognition of India’s role in technology and diplomacy

And yes — expect another signature Modi-style powerful ending with “Jai Hind!” echoing over the Red Fort.

Don’t Just Read About It, Watch It Live!

This 15 August, don’t wait for the next day’s newspaper. Watch the moment live — see the tricolor unfurl, hear the PM’s words, and feel the goosebumps when the crowd chants “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

It’s more than history — it’s your connection to the nation.

FAQs

1. Who has hoisted the tricolor most times at the Red Fort?

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, with 17 times between 1947–1964.

2. How many times has PM Modi hoisted the flag on Independence Day?

As of 2025, PM Modi will have done it 12 times.

3. Which PM gave the longest Independence Day speech?

Narendra Modi, with a 98-minute speech in 2024.

4. Why do PMs give speeches from the Red Fort on August 15?

It’s a tradition started by Nehru in 1947, symbolizing freedom, unity, and leadership.

5. Which PMs never got the chance to hoist the flag?

Gulzarilal Nanda and Chandra Shekhar.

Final Word

Independence Day at the Red Fort isn’t just history — it’s the heartbeat of India. From Nehru’s unforgettable flag hoists to Modi’s record-breaking speeches, each moment reminds us of our nation’s struggles, triumphs, and dreams. Every year, the Red Fort tells a story of pride, unity, and hope for the future. And in 2025, a new chapter is being written. Will you witness history in the making, feel the emotion, and celebrate the spirit that binds every Indian heart together?

Independence Day 2025 Speech by PM Modi – Video Courtesy: YouTube / NDTV, 15 August 2025