Annually on January 26th, India celebrates Republic Day with grandeur. Magnificent parades at Janpath, New Delhi, featuring the Indian National Army and national flag hoisting across the country mark this day. In 2024, India will observe its 75th Republic Day.

The significance lies in India adopting its constitution on January 26, 1950, post gaining independence from British rule. The date was chosen as, January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress declared Purna Swaraj, asserting India’s independence.

Republic Day is celebrated nationwide, with flag hoisting, cultural events, and grand parades. In New Delhi, the President hoists the flag at India Gate, presiding over a parade showcasing military strength and cultural diversity. The event pays homage to martyrs, with the Prime Minister honoring them at Amar Jawan Jyoti, followed by a 21-gun salute, flag hoisting, and the national anthem. 75th Republic Day.

Awards like Paramvir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Vir Chakra are presented to brave soldiers, and gallantry awards are conferred on children and citizens displaying courage. The gallantry award winners salute the President in military jeeps, followed by a display of India’s military power.

March-pasts by armed forces, police, and the National Cadet Corps, with the President accepting salutes, culminate in an Indian Air Force fighter jet flypast at Janpath. 75th Republic Day.

Republic Day symbolizes independent India’s spirit, featuring military equipment displays, the national flag, and military prowess. January 26 is a gazetted holiday, marking the adoption of the Indian constitution, leading to closed government offices, reduced business hours, and traffic disruptions due to parades. Increased security measures are implemented on this public holiday.

History of Republic Day

Republic Day in India commemorates the adoption of the country’s constitution, marking the transition to a sovereign republic. Here’s a brief history:

1. Background:

• Independence: India won independence from British rule on August 15, 1947.
• Constitution Drafting: The task of drafting the constitution was assigned to the Constituent Assembly.

2. Constituent Assembly:

• Formation: The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946, with Dr. Rajendra Prasad as its president.
• Committees: Various committees were formed to draft different sections of the constitution, headed by luminaries like B.R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel.

3. Adoption of the Constitution:

• Final Draft: After several deliberations and modifications, the final draft of the Indian Constitution was ready.
• Adoption Date: The Constituent Assembly adopted the constitution on January 26, 1950, replacing the Government of India Act (1935).

4. Republic Day Celebration:

• Oath Taking: Dr. Rajendra Prasad took the oath as the first President of India on this day.
• Transition to Republic: India officially became a republic, with its head of state, recognizing the President as the ceremonial head.

5. Significance:

• Purna Swaraj: The date, January 26, was chosen to honor the declaration of Purna Swaraj (complete independence) by the Indian National Congress in 1930.
• Symbol of Sovereignty: Republic Day symbolizes the end of British rule and the establishment of a sovereign democratic republic.

6. Celebrations:

• Delhi Parade: A grand parade is held at Rajpath in New Delhi, showcasing the country’s military strength, cultural diversity, and achievements.
• Flag Hoisting: The President hoists the national flag, and important awards like the Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are conferred.

7. Traditions:

• Amar Jawan Jyoti: The Prime Minister pays homage to the soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate.
• Cultural Events: Schools and colleges across the country conduct cultural programs, and flag hoisting ceremonies.

Republic Day is a national holiday, celebrated with patriotic fervor, highlighting India’s journey to becoming a sovereign republic.