Republic Day
Republic Day – A Day of National Pride
Introduction:
Designated as a national holiday, Republic Day has always been celebrated in India with great pride and patriotism. India got its freedom on 15th August, 1947, but it did not come with democracy. After two and a half years of liberty, India was declared as a sovereign, secular, socialist, and democratic republic on 26th January, 1950. From this day, the Indian Constitution came into effect, thus making India one of the biggest democracies in the world.
Table of Contents:
- Origin of Republic Day
- Why Republic Day is celebrated in India
- Republic Day Celebration
- Significance of Celebrating Republic Day in India
- Origin of Republic Day:
Republic Day is a day of reflecting and responding to all the sacrifices and fights to make India a sovereign republic. The date was selected to recognize the ‘Purna Swaraj’ declared by the National Congress on 26th January, 1930. After being free from the British rule, India was still a constitutional monarchy under the rule of King George VI. On 4th November, 1947, a draft of the Indian constitution was presented by the constituent assembly under the leadership of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar. On 24th January 1950, the Assembly signed two copies of the document in Hindi and English.
- Why Republic Day is celebrated in India?
From 1950, every year Republic Day was celebrated on 26th January to commemorate the adoption of the constitution of India. India achieved independence after 200 years of colonial rule at the cost of many lives. This day is celebrated with great importance so that the people of India never forget the sacrifices made by these heroes in establishing India's own democracy. This day holds incredible significance in the context of the establishment of a democratic country free from colonial rule. It plays an important role in strengthening the country's commitment to its citizens by upholding the values of freedom, equality, and justice.
- Republic Day Celebration:
Republic Day celebrations in India begin with the President's address to the nation. He then hoists the national flag in the capital, New Delhi, and the day begins with the hoisting of the flag by the governors and lieutenant governors in their respective states and union territories.
Parade:
The main Republic Day celebrations take place in New Delhi, on the Kartavya Road. A ceremonial boulevard runs from the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill to India Gate. Designed with a ceremonial parade and cultural programs, the event is hosted by the President of India. At the same time, the Delhi Republic Day Parade, organized by the Ministry of Defence, is also held. The President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes salutes from various units of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Paramilitary, and Police forces.
Chief Guest:
List of Chief Guests at the Delhi Republic Day Parade
Every year, a head of state or government of another country is invited as a state guest to celebrate Republic Day in New Delhi. The guest country is often selected on the basis of strategic, economic, and political interests. The chief guest at India's 75th Republic Day celebrations was French President Emmanuel Macron.
Beating Retreat:
The Beating Retreat ceremony, conducted on the evening of 29 January, marks the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations. It is performed by bands from all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces at Vijay Chowk. The President of India is escorted by the Presidential Guard, and after a ceremonial salute, the Indian national anthem, Jan Gana Mana, is played. The military bands then play popular tunes such as Abide with Me and finally Sara Jahan Se Acha.
Awards:
On the eve of Republic Day, the President of India presents civilian Padma Awards in various categories. These were instituted in 1954 and are awarded in three categories in order of precedence.
- The 'Padma Vibhushan' award is given for "extraordinary and distinguished service" and is the second highest civilian honor.
- The 'Padma Bhushan' is awarded for "distinguished service of a high order" and is the third highest civilian honor.
- The 'Padma Shri' is awarded for "distinguished service" and is the fourth highest civilian honor.
The awards consist of a certificate and a medallion, and, unlike national honors, the awards do not include cash allowances, benefits, or special concessions. In addition, a commemorative brochure with a brief biography of each awardee is also released on the day of the Investiture Ceremony.
- Significance of Celebrating Republic Day in India:
Symbolizing the end of the struggle for freedom and the establishment of a self-governing nation, Republic Day is a source of pride for Indians worldwide. It pays tribute to the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution, which play a vital role in moving the nation forward. In Delhi, the grand celebrations of Republic Day showcase India's cultural richness and unity in diversity. This special day emphasizes India's commitment to justice, freedom, and equality, pointing to the Constitution as the ultimate guide for the nation. It empowers citizens to participate in decision-making, making India a vibrant democracy. Republic Day is also of immense importance from an educational perspective. The occasion helps the younger generation to appreciate historical values and shape the identity of the nation.
Conclusion:
Republic Day marks the momentous occasion of India's formal emergence as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect. The day symbolizes India's unity in diversity and reflects the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Citizens participate in the flag-hoisting ceremony on this day and reaffirm their commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution.