26th January marks the enactment of Indian Constitution i.e. the day when India, the largest democracy of the world became a Republic Nation in the year 1950. Republic means a state where people hold the supreme power, freedom and choose their own representatives to run the nation. As earlier India had no constitution of its own, so the people got this freedom and power only after the ‘Constitution of India’ came into effect on 26th January in 1950 after replacing the ‘Government of India Act’. This year it will be the 73rd Republic Day of India which is celebrated as a National holiday by the whole nation with a great zeal, enthusiasm and tons of pride.
Table of contents:
- History of Republic day
- Significance of Republic day
- Celebrations of Republic day
- Conclusion
History of Republic day:
India got independence on 15th August, 1947 but became Republic on 26th January, 1950. It’s because in 1929 on the same day Indian National Congress denounced British rule and announced for granting a PurnaSwaraj (complete freedom from British rule) for India by 26th January, 1930 and Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted tricolour on the banks of Ravi River. But as the British government didn’t react on the planned day i.e. 26th January, 1930 thus the Nation started its active movement for complete independence and the day 26th January was celebrated as PurnaSwaraj for next 17 years till we got independence on 15th August, 1947. Thus after two weeks of independence a drafting committee was established under the leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Hence, the Constitution was adopted on 26th November, 1949 but it came into force only on 26th January, 1950 as the day hold immense importance for the whole Nation.
Significance of Republic Day:
This day is very significant as it marks the commencement of new independent India that is secular, sovereign, socialist and democratic republic. On the same day Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first president of Republic India. Also on 26th January, the first meeting of Indian Parliament was held. The Constitution is the supreme law of India which lays down the powers, procedures, structure, fundamental rights, duties and directive principles of government and the citizens. Hence, making India a complete democratic and republic nation which is why the day is celebrated with great significance and pomp.
Celebrations of Republic Day:
The republic day is celebrated with strong patriotism and respect in all over the nation. The main event for the day is the massive Parade which is held at Rajpath in New Delhi by Indian Army, India Air Force and Indian Navy. Prime minister of India pays homage to the martyred soldiers by laying a wreath at AmarJawanJyoti – an arched war memorial at India Gate in New Delhi which is followed by 21- gun salute. Then the president of India hoists the National Flag which is being followed by the National anthem ‘Jana GanaMana’ and all the people present their stands up in the honour and sings the National anthem. The president honours the brave citizens of India with different bravery awards. India’s defence prowess is also on display with latest missiles, aircrafts and weapons.
To mark the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ this year the Republic Day Parade at Rajpath is going to witness the largest and grandest flypast ever with 75 aircrafts and helicopters which includes vintage as well as modern aircrafts – 7 new Rafale fighters, Jaguar, Mi-17, Dakota, Sarang and many more. The Republic Day Parade is one of the most spectacular Parades of the world. Apart from this, there are various cultural and historical events such as folk singing, dancing, smaller parades etc. which are being celebrated throughout the country by various institutions and organisations.
Conclusion:
Republic Day holds a very great importance for the whole nation and its citizens. It is celebrated by every citizenof India with great zeal, pride, enthusiasm, purity and patriotism. Let’s remember our freedom fighters and great leaders who strived themselves for our better future and walk on the righteous path shown by them.
