In Pictures: PM Modi Launches ‘Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ From Sabarmati Ashram; Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Today, Prime Minister (PM) Modi in Ahmedabad launched the Amrit Mahotsav of independence that will run till 15 August 2023, one year after the 75th anniversary of India’s independence in 1947. He launched the 'Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' website.

He also saw pictures, magazines and other collections at a special exhibition near Abhay Ghat in Ahmedabad, as part of the Amrit Mahotsav programme.

“Today, is the first day of the Amrit Mahotsav of independence. This Mahotsav has started 75 weeks before 15th August 2022 and will run till 15th August 2023,” he said.

“Today’s Amrit Mahotsav programme begins from Sabarmati Ashram, from where Dandi March began. The Dandi March had a key role in furthering a spirit of pride and Aatmanirbharta among India’s people. Going 'Vocal For Local' is a wonderful tribute to Bapu and our great freedom fighters,” he added.

The prime minister launched five pillars as part of the Amrit Mahotsav of independence. “Freedom Struggle, Ideas at 75, Achievements at 75, Actions and Resolves at 75- these five pillars will inspire the country to move forward,” he said.

The prime minister also visited the Sabarmati Ashram, and garlanded a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi at Hriday Kunj.

“The country can never forget Lokmanya Tilak's Purna Swaraj; Azaad Hind Fauj's call for 'Delhi Chalo'; Quit India movement...We take inspiration from Mangal Pandey, Tatya Tope, Rani Laxmi Bai, Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Pt Nehru, Sardar Patel, Ambedkar..,” said the prime minister.

PM Modi further said in his speech that India's self-reliance in vaccine manufacturing has proved beneficial for the entire world. “The achievements of India are not only our own today, but they are going to show light to the whole world,” he said.

The prime minister also flagged off 'padyatra' from Ahmedabad to Dandi, as part of the Amrit Mahotsav programme. Padyatris from different parts of the country had reached Abhay Ghat to participate in the march.

Union minister Prahlad Singh Patel informed that the padyatra flagged by PM Modi will cover a distance of 241 miles, from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad to Dandi in Navsari and will end on 5 April, lasting for 25 days. Patel himself will lead the first 75 km of the yatra.

State governments and union territories are also organising programs today to mark the 91st anniversary of Dandi march.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Bhopal at 'Amrit Mahotsav' to mark 75 years of Independence said, “It was taught that only some people helped us attain freedom, but many great leaders were excluded from history books. War memorials will be established for over 30,000 martyrs in state.”

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also flagged off a 'padyatra' in Jaipur today. In Punjab, a cycle rally was organized in Amritsar today.

Anupam Kher, veteran actor and a member of committee to commemorate 75th anniversary of India’s independence said, “It's a day to thank those due to whom we're breathing in independent India. It's time to recall that freedom shouldn't be taken for granted, people gave their lives to make it happen.”

Cultural performances took place near Abhay Ghat in Ahmedabad to celebrate the occasion.

The Azaadi ka Amrut Mahotsav will include a series of events organised to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India’s independence. The Mahotsav will be celebrated as ‘Jan Utsav’ (people’s festival) with ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (people’s participation).

In his speech today, PM Modi said, “Similar to our independence struggle, the next 75 years have been a sign of every common India's hardwork, innovation and quality. With our efforts, we've proven ourselves. We're proud of our Constitution and our democratic procedures.”