Independence Day of India is celebrated annually on August 15. In the year 1947, on this day, India attained independence from British Raj. Since then, the day is celebrated across the nation regardless of any religion, caste, race, and creed, with several social and cultural events.

Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India hoisted the Indian national flag above the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi one day after independence - August 16, 1947.

Read: Biggest Indian Independence Day Event in Jersey City This Weekend

But what you might not aware of is, apart from India, Four other countries - Bahrain, Korea (South & North), Republic of Congo, and Liechtenstein - also celebrate independence on 15th of August.

Bahrain

Situated in the middle east, Bahrain, the ancient land of the Dilmun civilization, declared its liberation on August 15, 1971, from the British. The Bahrain archipelago had been reigned by various entities, including the Portugal and Arabs before it became a British protectorate in the 19th century.

Korea

August 15 is celebrated as National Liberation Day both in North and South Korea. It marks Korea’s independence from 35 years of Japanese colonization in 1945. Gwangbokjeol, literally, “the time of the restoration of light”, is one of few public holidays celebrated by both the Koreas – North and South.

Republic of Congo

Also known as Congo-Brazzaville, the Republic of the Congo, a central African nation, received full independence from France on August 15, 1960, precisely 80 years after it came under French rule.

Liechtenstein

The 15 August is celebrated as National Day in Liechtenstein. One of the smallest nations was freed from the German rule in 1866. Celebrations of Liechtenstein day comprise a Catholic mass followed by distribution of free sandwiches and drinks at the prince's castle. Thousands of citizens also get a chance to interact with the royal family.

By Sowmya Sangam