Eassy of Republic Day of India

THE REPUBLIC DAY OF INDIA

India gained independence on 15 August 1947, after which the process of preparing a constitution was started. The Constitution was passed on 26 November 1949 in the Constituent Assembly. It was adopted on 26 January 1950 with a democratic government system, when the country became a republic in true sense. 26 January was selected, because it was this day in 1930 when the Declaration of Indian Independence was passed.

In the life of every nation there are certain days which are considered as red-letter days. The Republic Day celebration held on 26th January every year in our country is one of those days. It is perhaps the most important day of our country. It marks the birth of our nation as a republic. Therefore this day is celebrated all over the country with great pomp and show.

From then on till the dawn of independence on Aug. 1947, the nation celebrated 26th Jan. as Independence Day. Later, when India wanted a day to mark its official birth 26th January, the independence day of the pre-independence days was chosen. On this day, 26th Jan. 1950 Indian constitution came into force and India was proclaimed to be a sovereign, democratic and a republic,

The ceremony begins in the morning of 26th January with the laying of a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyothi at the India Gate by the Prime Minister, as a mark of gratitude to the martyrs who have laid down their lives for the country. At exactly 8.00 a.m. the president reaches the Rajpath along with the Chief Guest. They are welcomed by the Prime Minister and the defence Minister.

On reaching the specially erected podium, the president unfurls the national flag. The Republic day parade begins soon after this. The march is led by heroes of war, the members of armed forces who have received gallantry awards followed by the young boys and girls who have won National Bravery Awards for that year.

Soldiers from different wings of the armed forces, units of paramilitary and police forces march to the tune of the military band. The President takes the salute. A colourful %-past by helicopters and aeroplanes makes the ceremony most spectacular. Folk dances by cultural troupes and various performances are put up by school children to keep the audience spellbound.

The tableaux of states depicting the cultural wonders of the states follow the school children. The procession lasts for several hours and finally ends up at Red Fort. Hundreds of people from far off places come to watch the charming show of military might and national glory.

In the evening, the Raisina Hill, where the Rashtrapathi Bhavan is situated is illuminated, presenting a glittering sight. The Republic Day celebrations last three days and come to an end on the evening of 28th January with the Beating of the Retreat ceremony. It is an impressive ceremony put up by our armed forces. Grand Republic day celebrations are also organised in various state capitals, district headquarters and at the Block and Panchayat levels which are attended by the general public.