As we celebrate 72 years of Indian Independence, it’s a good time to look back at the events and times that shaped our nation since 15 August 1947.
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)
1979 – A Nobel for a Mother
Sister of Mercy Mother Teresa’s undying kindness and compassion for the downtrodden, the displaced and the diseased in India is recognised as she is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
1983 – Kapil's Devils Conquer the World
Seen as underdogs going into the tournament with no hopes of clearing the league matches, the Kapil Dev-led Indian cricket team triumphs against all odds, including wagers of 100-1 in favour of the Windies in the finals of the cricket World Cup.
1984 – Golden Temple Under Seige
In 1984, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi signs the order to launch a military offensive to smoke out Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale’s militants who had unleashed terror on Punjab and taken refuge in the Golden Temple.
For five days, the Indian army pounds the holy Sikh shrine with heavy artillery, tanks and helicopters. This is Operation Bluestar.
1984 – The Assassination of Indira Gandhi
Indira Gandhi is assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards on 31 October 1984, following which her son, Rajiv, takes over. Gandhi is assassinated just a few months after Operation Blue Star.
A pogrom continues across Delhi and the adjoining areas for three days. There is looting, destruction of property, and killing.
