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26th January, 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state. On this day, India became a Republic. The country finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous freedom fighters who fought for and sacrificed their lives for the Independence of the country. Hence, the 26th of January was decreed a national holiday and has been recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India ever since.

At the stroke of midnight, as India moved into August 15, 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru - India's first Prime Minister, read out the famous speech proclaiming India's independence. The moment ended three centuries of British colonial rule. The land was no longer the summer retreat of British sahibs who fancied spices, shikar, elephants and snake-charmers. Independence was also the end of nearly a century of struggle for freedom, battles, betrayals and sacrifices.

Holi - the festival of colors is one of the most popular festivals of the country. It is celebrated during the spring season and embodies all the festivity, liveliness and exuberance of the season. Holi is the festival of young hearts. Spraying colors, dancing to traditional Holi songs, rhythmic drum beats and wild processions are the common scenes that one comes across during this festival. The festival is associated with various legends but the most popular among them is the tale of Holika. Even today, bonfires are lit on the night before Holi in memory of burning of the evil Holika. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil.

Diwali is regarded as one of the most important festivals of the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated across the nation with great pomp and excitement. Diwali is also known as the "festival of lights" since the name Diwali means "rows of lighted lamps". On this day, diyas (small clay lamps) are lit in people's homes, irrespective of their social status. Diwali is a five-day festival, beginning on the 15th day of the month of Kartika (Ashwin) as per the Hindu calendar. By the Gregorian calendar, Diwali falls in October or November. Diwali marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and is celebrated with a lot of fireworks. People decorate their homes with beautiful diyas and rangoli (the art of floor painting) in the courtyard/entrance to the house. They put flowers and mango leaves on their doors and windows, diyas and candles are placed on rooftops and in the rooms. On this day, people worship Lord Ganesha, the foremost of all Hindu Gods and Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity.