A small hand grips the national flag tightly, eyes wide with excitement as the national anthem plays. For this child, Republic Day is a day filled with awe – a day spent watching movies like Bhagat Singh, Lagaan, The Legend of Bhagat Singh and Rang De Basanti on TV, feeling a deep connection to the heroes and the history of the past.
For veterans, Republic Day is a really special day. On this day, they tend to look back at the sacrifices made by freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Mangal Pandey, and more. All the blood, sweat and tears that went into us having the freedom we have today. Freedom that we, at times, take for granted.
This day is indeed a really special day in India. Republic Day is more than just a celebration or wishing each other ‘Happy Republic Day.’ It is a day for us to remember the sacrifices our forefathers made for our country because they have a huge role to play in where we as a nation are today.
Republic Day – History
Have you ever wondered why this day is so significant for us Indians? On this day, the Constitution of India came into effect, which made India a republic. 26th January is the day we celebrate the Republic Day of India. History textbooks speak about how India had a long struggle as she fought for her independence. Did you know that even after our country got freedom from the British on 15th August 1947, the day we now celebrate Independence Day, India was still governed by the laws of the British? People started to feel that India needed its own set of rules, a Constitution that really spoke to our values and dreams.
Why do we celebrate Republic Day?
Let’s get into why 26 January is celebrated as Republic Day. Meaning, on January 26, 1950, India officially became a republic when its Constitution was adopted. But do you know why this date was chosen? January 26 was picked for a special reason—it was the day the Indian National Congress declared ‘Purna Swaraj’ (complete independence) in 1930. By adopting the Constitution on the same date in 1950 it felt like the perfect way to bring the struggle for freedom full circle and for India to start a fresh chapter.
The first Republic Day of India was celebrated on January 26, 1950, when Dr. Rajendra Prasad took the oath as our first President. Held at the Irwin Amphitheatre in New Delhi, the event saw him hoist the national flag. As the anthem played, it felt like a true turning point in India’s story. Every year since then, on 26 January, Republic Day is celebrated across the country, but the most elaborate celebrations take place in our national capital, Delhi. There is a Republic Day parade that takes place at Rajpath which highlights our rich culture, diversity and our military power.
Republic Day Celebration
Every year on 26 January, Republic Day is observed across India with a lot of pride and enthusiasm. As mentioned earlier, it was on this day in the year 1950 that the Indian Constitution came into effect, thereby making our country a republic. So yes, Republic Day is more than just a holiday for us Indians. On this day, we all come together to honour our rich and diverse culture and the sacrifices our forefathers and freedom fighters made.
It is celebrated in a number of ways. Obviously, we have the grand celebration in Delhi, but it is also celebrated across the country. In schools all over India, children go to school early in the morning for the flag hoisting ceremony. The national anthem is sung, and skits are organised, telling the story of India’s freedom struggle and how the Constitution came into being. A Republic Day speech might be given by a teacher or a student to highlight why this day is so important in India. Whether it is a Republic Day speech in English or a Republic Day speech in Hindi, these speeches teach young students about democracy, equality, freedom and the values of our Constitution. Don’t we all have nostalgic memories of this?
In today’s day and age, almost everyone is on social media, and it comes as no surprise that people use social media platforms as mediums to express their thoughts and feelings on Republic Day. Whether you look at Facebook or WhatsApp, you’ll see many people post Republic Day quotes or a Republic Day status to express the love they have for India. Republic Day quotes or Republic Day wishes are also shared with loved ones via text message and in person.
You’ll see that people also share Republic Day quotes in Hindi and Republic Day quotations in English on social media platforms. These could be inspirational Republic Day quotes, ones that remind people of the sacrifices our freedom fighters made and about the significance of this day. Brands may also use social media to put up posts on this day in India. Republic Day wishes may be posted through impressive creatives and captions. Some may even use Instagram stories to have competitions like quizzes to ask people questions about the day like, ‘What is Republic Day?’ ‘What is the Republic Day date?’ ‘When is Republic Day?’
In India, Republic Day wishes are exchanged not only with family but also with friends, neighbours, and colleagues. Greeting cards for Republic Day are also a great way to wish someone a ‘Happy Republic Day!’ People also write heartfelt messages on these greeting cards on Republic Day where they express how grateful they are for the freedom they have today and for how united we are as a country.
Inspirational Republic Day quotes are also circulated on this day – some remind people of the importance of equality and freedom, whereas some highlight the sacrifices made by our leaders in the past. People may also share proud Republic Day quotes to express how much they respect the Republic of India and our founding fathers.
On this day, we can look back at how far we’ve come since we celebrated our first Republic Day. We all have the right to vote and the right to education and freedom. We can also look at the ideals of the Constitution – justice, liberty, equality as well as fraternity. These values are what make India such a strong democracy. A Republic Day speech in English or a Republic Day speech in Hindi often highlight these topics. A student, teacher or a leader can deliver these speeches depending on the location where the event is being held.
A few days before Republic Day, offices, schools, public spaces, and colleges may be decorated with the colours of the Indian flag – saffron, white and green. Schools or communities may organise a Republic Day parade, and people or children may put up skits and dances or sing patriotic songs. On this day, everyone comes together to celebrate the achievements of the nation and appreciate the freedom we have today.
No matter how your Republic Day celebration is – You could participate in a Republic Day parade, organise a skit or help decorate your society in the colours of the Indian flag, or share Republic Day quotations in English or inspirational Republic Day quotes on social media to express how you feel about the country.
The Republic Day Parade
Another important event that is part of the Republic Day celebration is the Republic Day parade that takes place in Delhi, our capital. It takes place at Kartavya Path, which was earlier referred to as Rajpat, every year on January 26th. It highlights our rich heritage, military strength and everything India has achieved in a number of fields. The President of India unfurls our national flag, after which the Republic Day parade begins. There is a 21-gun salute and the national anthem, and together, all these elements create an environment of pride and patriotism.
Republic Day parade timing: The parade usually begins at 9:30 AM and continues for several hours. Many dignitaries, including the President, the Prime Minister and the Chief Guest of Honour, which is usually a leader from a foreign country or a representative from the same attend the event.
Republic Day parade tickets: You can buy Republic Day parade tickets online or at the assigned counters in Delhi.
The Republic Day parade celebrates India’s diversity. If you attend, you’ll be able to see cultural tableaus from various Indian states and the Union territories being displayed. These tableaus are moving exhibits, usually showcased on decorated vehicles. They are known to showcase the culture, festivals, achievements and history of the state or Union territory. There are beautiful costumes, decorations and, at times, even live performances. Many of them also have themes which are of national importance, like women’s empowerment, innovations in technology and more.
There is also a march past by the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian Army, the Navy as well as the Air Force display their teamwork and precision. With this, tanks, missiles and other advanced defence technology are also showcased. All this highlights how strong our military is. The Indian Air Force fly-past is also another highlight – they make formations like the Trishul. There are amazing aerobatic displays as well by the Surya Kiran team, which leaves the audience amazed.
Awards presented on Republic Day & Beating Retreat Ceremony
On Republic Day, we come together to celebrate our amazing culture and achievements. And during the Republic Day parade in Delhi, a number of awards are presented to individuals for their exceptional service and courage – among these, the Gallantry awards are the most important. These are presented to the brave men and women who are part of the Indian Armed Forces, as well as civilians, for their courage and for keeping our country safe. The most noteworthy among these awards is the Ashoka Chakra, the highest gallantry award presented in peacetime.
Other awards are also presented – these include the Padma Awards, which are given to people for their exceptional contributions in the fields of art, literature, science as well as public service. The three categories of these awards are the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Padma Shri. Moreover, the National Bravery Awards are presented to children who have shown a lot of bravery in difficult situations.
As far as the Beating Retreat ceremony, it takes place on 29th January. This marks the end of the Republic Day celebration. The celebration includes displays of military skill and music, showing India’s unity and power.
Chief Guest at this year’s Republic Day celebrations
President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia will visit New Delhi as the Chief Guest for India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations between the 25th and 26th of January. The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, extended this invitation to him. This will be the first time President Prabowo will be visiting India since taking office in October 2024.
Progress made by India in various fields since 1950
Since India became a republic in the year 1950, we have achieved a lot in various fields. As far as sports are concerned, a lot of Indian athletes have won medals at the Olympics. Neeraj Chopra won a gold medal in javelin at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Moreover, Mary Kom won a bronze medal in boxing at the London 2012 Olympics, and Sushil Kumar secured a bronze medal in wrestling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Whereas if we look at cricket, India won the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup and the 2011 ICC World Cup. The latest big win for India came in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, where India took the title by beating Australia in the final.
India has made great progress in space exploration. The successful Chandrayaan missions to the moon have put India on the world map. Chandrayaan-2 and the recent Chandrayaan-3 have shown India’s strength in technology. Another big achievement was the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), which made India the first Asian country to reach Mars. India is also advancing in satellite launches and space science.
In terms of economy, India has achieved quite a lot in global trade, technology, and pharmaceuticals. The country has also improved healthcare, expanded education, and developed digital infrastructure. As India celebrates Republic Day, it takes pride in these achievements and looks forward to more progress.
What is the Difference between Independence Day and Republic Day?
While both Independence Day as well as Republic Day are 2 important national celebrations in the country, they’re both different events. Independence Day is observed every year on 15th August, and it was on this day in the year 1947 that India gained independence from British rule. Meanwhile Republic Day is celebrated on 26th January every year to commemorate the day India became a republic in the year 1950 after adopting its Constitution. This basically means that our country became a self-governing country with a government that was elected by the people. While both days are observed with pride, they honour different milestones in the history of the country.
FAQs about Republic Day in India
Q: Why do we celebrate Republic Day?
A: It was on January 26 in the year 1950, that the Constitution of India came into effect. On this day, India became a republic with a government that was elected by the people. This is why we celebrate Republic Day on this date every year.
Q: When was the first Republic Day of India observed?
A: As mentioned earlier the first Republic Day of India was observed on 26th January, in the year 1950. This was the day India adopted its Constitution and became a republic and a democracy.
Q: What are some popular Republic Day quotes?
A: Here are some inspirational Republic Day quotes —
“Our nation is like a tree of which the original trunk is swaraj and freedom.” – Subhas Chandra Bose.
“Let’s celebrate the spirit of India with pride, unity, and harmony.”
Q: Where can I find Republic Day quotes in Hindi?
A: You will be able to find many Republic Day quotes in Hindi online or in books that focus on topics like patriotism and national pride. You’ll also be able to find them on social media around the 26th of January, as a lot of people are known to share them.
Q: Which award is presented during the Republic Day parade?
A: Many awards are presented during the Republic Day parade. The Republic Day Gallantry Awards are known to recognise the courage shown by our Armed Forces personnel as well as civilians. The Padma Awards are also presented, which are known to recognise and honour service in different fields. As far as other Republic Day awards that are presented, the National Bravery Awards are given to brave children and the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry is given to police officers for their exceptional acts of bravery.
Q: How is Republic Day celebrated in India?
A: Republic Day is celebrated with grandeur and patriotism. The most important event takes place in New Delhi – a spectacular parade showcases India’s military might, cultural diversity, and technological achievements. Across the country, people participate in flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programs, and community events.
Q: Are there specific traditions associated with Republic Day celebrations?
A: Yes, traditional celebrations often include the hoisting of the national flag, singing the national anthem, and patriotic speeches. Schools and communities organise cultural programs, parades, and various activities to foster a sense of national pride.
Q: How do people celebrate Republic Day today compared to the past?
A: While traditional celebrations persist, there has been a shift towards digital commemorations. Social media platforms are filled with Republic Day wishes, quotes, and images of flag-hoisting ceremonies. The essence of the celebration, however, remains rooted in the values of democracy and unity.
Conclusion
26 January, Republic Day, is a day on which we should remember and honour the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters. As India celebrates its 76th year as a republic, it is essential that we all, as citizens, also celebrate the strength of being a democracy and look back at the progress we have made as a nation.
While we have made significant progress in a number of fields, there are still some challenges we have yet to overcome. One such challenge is the rising medical costs due to which a number of people can’t undergo life-saving medical treatment in time. However, by supporting fundraisers on Ketto, you can help give them a second chance at life, thereby contributing to making India healthy and prosperous.
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