True love for your country goes beyond a flag pin or a national anthem singalong. It is demonstrated through one’s actions, such as being good citizens, helping those in need, and contributing to maintaining law and order. Republic Day is a momentous occasion that celebrates the birth of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. This day marks the culmination of nearly 200 years of relentless struggle against imperial rule and the realisation of a free and democratic nation. India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, and the constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, under the visionary leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. As we celebrated our 75th Republic Day on January 26, 2024, we fondly remembered this journey from independence to the establishment of our constitution.The Purpose of Celebrating Republic DayThere is a reason why January 26 was chosen as the date for celebrating Republic Day. It was after years of struggle against British rule that we saw the birth of an independent Indian state. It was on this day in 1930 that the Indian National Congress proclaimed Purna Swaraj from British rule. It marked the beginnings of the republic, democratic, and sovereign values, which can be seen in our present-day constitution.It is an important day as the constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950, just a few years after India gained independence.The Grand Celebrations of Republic DayRepublic Day celebrations are a testament to the rich and diverse culture of our country. The grand event, held at Kartavya Path, is a spectacle of state tableaus, a special air show by the IAF, and the unfurling of the national flag by the President of India. Each year, the event is graced by a chief guest, with thousands of foreign officials and dignitaries in attendance. The 2024 event saw France’s President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest. The day gets special with a mix of cultural performances and parades by the Indian army. The Padma Awards are given to individuals who have excelled in different fields of life, including art and culture, education, literature, social service, and public affairs. Even gallantry awards like Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Kirti Chakra, to name a few, are conferred on brave soldiers who showed courageous patriotism on the battlefield.The celebrations are not just confined to Delhi. The Republic Day event is celebrated across the country in schools, colleges, and universities. In schools and colleges, exciting competitions are organised for students to display their talent. It is followed by dance and musical performances of patriotic songs, followed by the principal hoisting the national flag and singing the national anthem.The Republic Day celebrations conclude with the beating retreat ceremony on January 29. The ceremony is held on Kartavya Path to draw the curtain on the celebrations. The Indian army, Navy, and Indian Air Force perform patriotic tunes to evoke a sense of pride and nationalism in the general public. In recent years, Republic Day celebrations have been amplified and showcased through the lens of social media. People from all walks of life express their love for the country by participating in cleanliness drives, flying kites, and paying homage to the heroes of the Indian freedom struggle. People even post pictures and videos on social media to display their sense of patriotism and pride in being Indian.A Day for Reflection and IntrospectionRepublic Day is not just about grand celebrations and parades. It is a day of introspection, a day when we, as citizens, realise that the power to shape our nation’s future lies in our hands. Beyond the pomp and show, it is a day to reflect on our individual roles in contributing to the larger concept of nation-building. The day also teaches how different communities come together and display the secular values of our constitution. Let us pledge as citizens to contribute to India’s growth and success, ensuring that every Indian has the opportunity to achieve greatness and contribute to the nation’s glory.Before You Go…
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FAQs
1: What is the significance of Republic Day in India?
Republic Day marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950, and celebrates India’s transition to a democratic republic. It commemorates the culmination of nearly 200 years of struggle against colonial rule and symbolises the birth of a free and sovereign Indian state.
2: Why was January 26 chosen as Republic Day?
January 26 was chosen as Republic Day to honour the date in 1930 when the Indian National Congress declared Purna Swaraj (complete self-rule) from British rule. This date represents the ideals of sovereignty and democracy that were later enshrined in the Indian Constitution, adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950.
3: How is Republic Day celebrated across India?
Republic Day is celebrated with grand parades, cultural performances, and ceremonies. The main event occurs at Kartavya Path in Delhi, featuring state tableaus, an air show, and a flag hoisting by the President. Schools and colleges also participate in patriotic performances and activities. The celebrations conclude with the Beating Retreat ceremony, showcasing military bands and patriotic tunes.
