Shekhawat shares live stream of PM Modi's Red Fort address on India's 80th Independence Day
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
On the morning of 15 August 2026, as the tricolour rose over the ramparts of the Red Fort in New Delhi, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat pinned a live broadcast link to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address — making it directly accessible to his followers in real time.
A tradition that began in 1947
The Prime Minister's address from the Red Fort is among the most enduring rituals of the Indian republic. The convention was established by Jawaharlal Nehru on 15 August 1947 and has been observed without interruption every year since — a live broadcast that combines ceremonial flag-hoisting with a nationwide policy address.
The 80th Independence Day marks a significant milestone: eight decades since India ended British colonial rule. PM Modi, who has addressed the nation from the same ramparts each year since 2014, delivered this year's address to a crowd assembled at the historic monument and to millions watching across the country.
Shekhawat's role amplifying the national moment
As the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shekhawat's ministry oversees the Red Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ceremonial centrepiece of Independence Day. Sharing the live stream is consistent with his ministry's mandate to promote and broadcast India's cultural and national events. The pinned post ensured the address remained prominently visible throughout the morning.