Independence Day quiz: How long does it take to sing Indian National Anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'?

Independence Day: The selection of Aug 15, 1947, as India's I-Day was less about historical resonance within India and more a choice by the British.

India is gearing up to celebrate its 77th Independence Day on August 15- marking the country's independence from British Raj 76 years ago. The day honours our freedom fighters and their contribution for the country. Social gatherings, cultural events, hoisting the tricolour or tiranga, watching parades, citizens singing patriotic songs, and more will be witnessed on the day.

Independence Day: The day honours our freedom fighters and their contribution for the country.

1. How long does it take to sing the Indian National Anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'? 🎶

-52 seconds ✅

-1 minute 30 seconds

-45 seconds

-1 minute 10 seconds

The Indian National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," takes approximately 52 seconds to sing when sung at the proper pace. It's important to note that only the first stanza of the originally written song by Rabindranath Tagore is adopted as the National Anthem, and it is this stanza that is sung in 52 seconds.

2. Why was August 15, 1947, chosen for India's independence?

-Anniversary of Japan's surrender in WWII ✅

-Coincided with a Lunar Eclipse

-Lord Mountbatten's Birthday

-Traditional Indian Timing

The selection of August 15, 1947, as India's Independence Day was less about historical resonance within India and more a choice by the British.

Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy, advanced the original departure date, picking August 15 due to its significance as the anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender, a day he deemed lucky.

3. How many countries celebrate their Independence Day on Aug 15, apart from India? 🌍

-0

-1 country

-3 countries

-5 countries ✅

On August 15, several nations, from the vast subcontinent of India to the peninsular regions of Korea, mark their respective days of independence or significant national observances. While India commemorates its emancipation from British rule, both South and North Korea remember their liberation from Japanese occupation. The Republic of the Congo celebrates its independence from France, and Bahrain observes the day it was recognized as a sovereign entity post-British treaty relations. Notably, the tiny nation of Liechtenstein also joins this list, celebrating its National Day. This date serves as a reminder of the shared histories and significant milestones in the world's timeline.