Republic Day 2023: History, Significance And All You Need To Know

Every year, Republic Day is celebrated on January 26 in India. This year will mark the 74th Republic Day. It is an important day in India’s history that commemorates the establishment and adoption of the Indian Constitution.

Across India, the day is celebrated with utmost reverence and patriotism. There are a range of cultural events and military parades organised at Rajpath, New Delhi. National flag hoisting takes place in several parts of the nation. It is truly a memorable experience to witness these mesmerising parades and air shows by the Indian military and different states.

History

Republic Day is observed every year to celebrate the implementation of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. India gained independence on August 15, 1947, but India did not have any constitution of its own till later. The laws were based on the Government of India Act, 1935. On August 29, 1947, a resolution was passed to appoint the drafting committee, led by Dr BR Ambedkar, who became the Chairman to form the constitution.

It took two years and 11 months to set the guidelines under the Constitution, and on January 26, 1950, it came into force. The day was chosen on the basis of when India achieved ‘Purna Swaraj’ in 1930, the announcement of Indian Independence by the Indian National Congress.

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Significance

Republic Day marks the power of an independent and free India, followed by the right of Indian citizens to elect their own government representatives. The day is observed as a national holiday as a democratic system was brought into effect, so people can take the time to celebrate the festival with various activities and events. All local, state, and national level government authorities as well as commercial outlets and businesses remain closed or reduce working hours.

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The Celebration

The historic day is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and pride throughout the country. The special occasion is commemorated with a parade which involves all three wings of the military and various ‘Jhankis’ representing different states and union territories to showcase their unique culture. Air shows and adventurous bike riding takes place to present the grit and courage of the armed forces. This parade takes place at Rajpath, New Delhi. To pay tribute to the martyrs who lost their lives for the nation, the Ministry of Defence also presents bravery awards to military persons, citizens or individuals for their acts of courage.

The Prime Minister of India also lays a garland at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate in remembrance of the military officials who laid down their lives for the country. The parade is followed by hoisting of the national flag and reciting of the National anthem.

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