26 January, 2021 Republic Day

FIRST REPUBLIC DAY ON 26thJANUARY, 1950 

Though India became a free nation on August 15, 1947, it declared itself a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic state with the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950.

A salute of 21 guns and the unfurling of the Indian National Flag by Dr. Rajendra Prasad heralded the historic birth of the Indian Republic on that day. Thereafter 26th of January was decreed a national holiday and was recognized as the Republic Day of India.

The Constitution gave the citizens of India the power to choose their own government and paved the way for democracy. Dr. Rajendra Prasad took oath as the first President of India at the Durbar Hall in Government House and this was followed by the Presidential drive along a five-mile route to the Irwin Stadium, where he unfurled the tri-color National Flag.

Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of Independent India, in his special message to his countrymen, on the birth of the Indian Republic, said:

"We must re-dedicate ourselves on this day to the peaceful but sure realization of the dream that had inspired the Father of our Nation and the other captains and soldiers of our freedom struggle, the dream of establishing a classless, co-operative, free and happy society in 'his country'. We must remember that this is more a day of dedications than of rejoicing - dedication to the glorious task of making the peasants and workers the toilers and the thinkers fully free, happy and cultured."

With 395 Articles and eight Schedules, the Indian Constitution is the largest written constitution in the world.

The 73rd and 74th Amendment Acts introduced the system of panchayat raj in rural areas and Nagar Palikas in urban areas. Article 370 gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

REPUBLIC DAY CELEBRATIONS IN 21st CENTURY 

On January 26, the flag will be hoisted at 8:00 in the morning. The Republic Day parade begins from Rashtrapati Bhavan and ends at India Gate. The parade will go from Vijay Chowk via Rajpath, Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate  Princess Palace, Tilak Marg and culminates at India Gate. 

In Delhi, at Rajpath magnificent parades by regiments of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, police and paramilitary forces march and there is also a display India’s defense prowess is on display with latest missiles, aircraft, and weapon systems. Beautiful tableaus, representing the beauty of all the states of India are also showcased during the parade. There are also sky shows by the Air Force. India will be celebrating its 72nd Republic Day this year.