Republic Day in India

What is Republic Day?

Republic Day is one of the three national holidays of India. On the 26th of January 1950, the Indian Constitution came into effect. To honor the day, 26th January was marked as Republic Day.

History and Significance of Republic Day

On August 15th, 1947, India achieved independence from the British, who had previously ruled over them. The year embarks the Partition of British India into independent India and Pakistan. This day is known as Indian Independence Day, which is another national holiday of its own.

India did not have its constitution. The existing laws were mainly based on the common laws and adjustments of the “Government of India Act, 1935”, brought along by the British government. On 29th August 1947, a Drafting Committee was established to draft the Indian Constitution. Dr. BR Ambedkar served as the chairman of the Drafting Committee. The Constituent Assembly had 308 members and considered public opinion in drafting the constitution.  

After many meetings and moderations of the Assembly, the Assembly submitted one copy of the Constitution in Hindi and one in English on the 24th of January 1950. The whole process of drafting took more than two years.

On November 26, 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted the Indian Constitution, which became effective on January 26, 1950.

Also, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the President of the Indian National Congress (INC) Party, declared India’s independence from British Colonial Rule on this day in 1930. This declaration is called “Purna Swaraj” in India. In Sanskrit, the word “Purna” means Complete, and “Swaraj” means “Sovereignty.” So, the date 26th January was selected as complementary to the country’s declaration of total independence.

The nation of India commemorates this day as the Indian Constitution was established on this day. The Republic of India emerged into the face of the world with its independent democratic government. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as India's first president on 24th January 1950, and he was the only nominated candidate for the position. Under the transitional provisions of the new legislation, the Constituent Assembly evolved into the Parliament of India.

How Is Republic Day Celebrated in India? 

The day is celebrated all around India with much pride and patriotism.

As it is a national holiday, many families go on outings. Others also celebrate by throwing private parties. Cultural programs are arranged in schools and colleges so that the students know their national heritage and remember the brave people who fought for the country’s freedom. The most important celebration of the holiday is the Republic Day Parade.

Republic Day Parade

In Rajpath, New Delhi, the holiday’s main event, ‘The Republic Day Parade,’ takes place with vigor. The Ministry of Defense arranges the parade, preceded by the President. The event starts with hoisting the Tricolor Flag and playing the National Anthem. At the time of the anthem, a 21 Gun Salute is also performed. The country’s military power is displayed vibrantly, beginning with the parade marching of groups of the Indian Armed Forces. The groups are judged based on many criteria. Also, armored vehicles, cannons, tanks, and other advanced weaponry are showcased, mainly displaying military power. 

Each of the selected States, Union Territories, Ministries, and Departments must showcase their tableau. The Tableaux represent the achievements, specialties, developments, etc. of the selected States and Union Territories and the Ministries and Departments.

The parade ends with a spectacular show of Flypast with contemporary and vintage aircraft and helicopters. The Indian Airforce amazes the spectators with different formations in the sky. One of the awestriking sights is the formation of fighter planes that release colored smoke to display the Indian Flag.        

How Do Other Countries Celebrate Republic Day? 

Like India, other countries celebrate their own Republic Day to commemorate their sovereignty as Republic County. For example, South Africa adopted the constitution on 31st May 1961 and became a Republic country.

Another instance would be Greece, which abolished the monarchy and became a Republic on 21st March 1975.

Interesting Facts About the Republic Day and Republic Day Parade 

The date of the Indian Republic Day is complementary to the Indian Independence Movement.

After 1955, all instances of the Indian Republic Day- parade were held at Rajpath (formerly known as Kingsway), located in New Delhi. 

Before 1995, the parade was held at 4 different places:

• National Stadium, formerly known as Irwin Stadium
• Rajpath, formerly known as Kingsway
• Ramleela Maidan
• Red Fort

A key figure from a different country, may it be the President or Prime Minister, is invited every year as an honorable guest to the parade. The President Of Brazil, Jair Messias Bolsonaro, attended this, as he was invited to this parade in 2020 as the chief guest.

Usually, the prep work for this parade begins in the previous year. The participants have to practice the rehearsals crucially. Shockingly, the parade personnel had to go through 600 hours of practice before the actual program.

In every Republic Day Parade, the song “Abide By Me” is played. This was Mahatma Gandhi’s favorite song.

Republic Day Wishes

Below are some wishes you can share with your friends, family, colleagues, etc.

“May the pride of tri-color never fade. Happy Republic Day”

“Respect the country. Respect the constitution. Happy Republic Day!”

“On this Republic Day, let us remember the freedom fighters heartily, who fought and sacrificed for our freedom.”

“Let us never forget the golden heritage of our country. Be proud to be a part of India.”

Republic Day Interesting Facts

• Republic Day is a national holiday in India. Most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed on Republic Day.
• All activities performed on parade are meticulously practiced and rehearsed, so there is no chance of screwing up on the event day.
• All army personnel are thoroughly checked for live ammunition. No one is allowed to carry ammo and they must pass through various inspection levels.
• Guns are shot at the beginning of the national anthem and the 52-second mark. The Gun salute is done to match and coincide with the national anthem and ends at the 52-second spot.

Conclusion

Now that you have a better understanding of Republic Day, I hope I was able to get you excited to look forward to next year's Republic Day parade!