I'm a professor in the History Department of a university. My department is going to host a symposium on India's Freedom. We want to hear people's opinion about 15th August 1947 and what does it mean to you?

Context: 15th August 1947 is India's Independence Day. From August 15, 1947, India, though free from imperialist clutches, continued to be under the tight grip of the Neo Liberal forces. It is important to look at the current state of world affairs and the situation back home to understand the grand deception of independence that was sold to us, and how we became willing partners to the systematic erosion of our rights and freedoms that was unleashed by the colonial powers. <br>Submissions are accepted until 31st of December 2023.<br><br>Edit: The format of this symposium will be similar to that of a discussion panel, where there will be multiple speakers discussing and sharing their views on the topic. <br>The event will be live in university campus and it will also be live streamed on Youtube and other platforms, and speakers are welcome to be there in person or virtually. <br><br>Edit 2: Most of the replies are from Indians. We would also love to hear from people of other nationalities, what does 15 August mean to you? Does this date hold any significance in your home country? Does it even cross your mind ever at all?