Republic Day of India

Every year, India celebrates its Republic Day on 26th January. India became a Republic country on 26th January 1950, after the Constitution drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar came into force. This day is celebrated like a national festival throughout the country. It is celebrated with great desire and pride. Indians feel proud of their nation. A public holiday is declared on this day.

Preparations for this day are made well in advance. Schools and other educational institutions all over the country celebrate this Day. The flag is hoisted on important Government buildings like Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, etc. When the flag is unfurled, everybody stands in attention. In schools, boys and girls march past the unfurled National Flag and salute it. National Anthem and patriotic songs are sung by the students.

A wonderful celebration is organized, which is aired on the television. The Prime Minister pays respect to martyrs and thousands of soldiers who laid down their lives for the cause of the nation. This celebration takes place at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. Then the President comes from Rashtrapati Bhavan to hoist the National Flag. As the head of the country, he addresses his speech to the entire nation. Later military and police officers are awarded with Peacetime Gallantry Awards like the Ashok Chakra, the Kirti Chakra and the Shaurya Chakra for their brave deeds. It is a very honourable moment.

Each year Republic Day parade takes place in India’s capital city, Delhi. The soldiers smartly do their march. Indian Army, Navy and Air force display the arms possessed by the county. Different war tanks, missiles and weapons make part of the parade. The helicopters and jet planes of Air force perform different stunts in the sky. The main attraction of the program is each state showing its culture and tradition through jhankis. Even folk dances of different states are performed by different cultural groups.

Republic Day spreads the feelings of love, unity, goodwill, affection and generosity among the people belonging to different religions. This is the day when we remember the heroes who selflessly fought to achieve India’s freedom.

National festivals like Republic Day and Independence Day must be celebrated in grand style because it helps in keeping the patriotic spirit alive within us. Do you celebrate them with same joy and excitement as other festivals?