Diversity as a Strength:
“India is a country with hundreds of languages, religions, and cultures. The fact that, despite this diversity, a common national movement emerged is inspiring to me as a father—it shows my children that difference is not an obstacle, but a source of creativity and resilience.”
After the Second World War
The Second World War left Great Britain economically exhausted and politically weakened. The Labour government under Clement Attlee announced in 1946 that India would be granted independence by June 1948 at the latest.
Political and Religious Tensions
Meanwhile, tensions between Hindus and Muslims intensified. The Indian National Congress was dominated mainly by Hindus, while the Muslim League under Muhammad Ali Jinnah demanded a separate state for Muslims. This disagreement called the unity of the country into question and made compromises necessary.
The Decision to Partition
Finally, a partition into two states was decided: predominantly Hindu India and Muslim Pakistan. Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last British Viceroy, set the date for the transfer of power as August 15, 1947—almost a year earlier than originally planned.
Outlook for Part 3
In the final part, I will describe the events of Independence Day itself, Nehru’s famous speech, and the ambivalent feelings between joy and tragedy.
