Celebrating 2025 Independence Day: Memories from Freedom’s Dawn

The year 2025 marks a significant milestone for India as it celebrates Independence Day, a moment that resonates deeply with its citizens. Reflecting on the early days of freedom, three unique memories capture the essence of this transformative period in the nation’s history.

Café Madras: Brewing Tradition since 1940

Café Madras, located in Matunga, Mumbai, has been a cornerstone of culinary tradition since it opened its doors in 1940. The establishment is renowned for its distinctive filter coffee, brewed using traditional brass filters. Devavrat Kamath, the third-generation owner, emphasizes the café’s commitment to maintaining its heritage. “We still brew only in brass filters. It is a tradition,” he states.

The choice of brass, once a cheaper and more malleable metal, reflects the practicality of the era. While newer filters have emerged, the original ones continue to play a vital role in the brewing process. Kamath explains, “Brass retains heat for a longer period, making them perfect for coffee.” This adherence to tradition not only preserves the café’s identity but also pays homage to the legacy of the time when India first tasted freedom.

The British Sunset: A Cocktail of History

The Harbour Bar at the prestigious Taj Mahal Palace in Colaba has witnessed countless historical moments since its establishment in 1933. Among its notable patrons were prominent figures like JRD Tata and legends such as John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Akshay Sikri, director of food and beverages at the hotel, highlights a significant event that took place just days after India gained independence.

“Two days after declaring India’s Independence, Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, delivered his farewell speech in the very ballroom of this hotel,” Sikri recounts. Inspired by this moment, the bar introduced a cocktail named The British Sunset, featuring English gin, tonic water, and lime. Sikri reflects on the cocktail’s symbolism, stating, “Sometimes, an end is a beginning.” This drink not only serves as a reminder of a pivotal historical occasion but also represents the blend of old and new in India’s evolving narrative.

Aviation Dreams Take Flight

The dawn of independence also heralded a new era in aviation for India. Debasish Chakraverty, an aviation enthusiast and son of a former pilot, recalls the excitement surrounding the formation of Air India. His father, DM Chakraverty, transitioned from the Indian Air Force to become a commercial pilot for the newly established airline.

“Air India became Air India International in 1948 and acquired the Lockheed Constellation aircraft, known for their long-range capabilities,” he shares. One of the first flights was the Malabar Princess, which launched on June 8, 1948, flying from India to London. The Constellation aircraft were often named after princesses, exuding an air of elegance and luxury that resonated with the public.

Chakraverty reminisces, “The Super Constellation planes featured beds for sleeping, offering a level of comfort that is rarely seen today.” His stories illustrate the thrill of aviation at a time when travel was becoming more accessible, marking a significant step forward for the nation.

As India commemorates its Independence Day in 2025, these memories from the early days of freedom serve as poignant reminders of the nation’s rich history. From the comforting aroma of traditional coffee at Café Madras to the elegant cocktails at the Taj Mahal Palace and the pioneering spirit of Air India, each story encapsulates the essence of a time when the dreams of a nation began to take flight.