There are few days that truly evoke the feeling of ‘patriotism’ in our lives. Some of them, interestingly, are the times we watch India playing an important game of cricket on national television, or even in the stadium. Especially if it’s against Pakistan!
Another, is India’s Republic Day! No prizes for guessing ‘When is Republic Day’, of course – we all know the answer to that one!
So, why do we even celebrate the Indian Republic Day on 26th January? We at Kangaroo Kids attempt to answer that question for you in this article, besides uncovering a whole lot of other pertinent information related to the Indian Republic Day. The least of which being, the importance of 26th January in our country!
Are you ready to don that patriotic hat and discover more about this day, that is in reality more than ‘just a public holiday’’? Let’s begin, by answering the question, ‘Why do we celebrate Republic Day’, that too on the 26th of January!
Republic Day Origins: Republic Day History
The Indian Republic Day is celebrated on the 26th of January each year, to commemorate India’s becoming a republic in January 1950, on the very same day.
This was indeed a great day in the annals of Indian history, because it was on this very day that our esteemed Constitution was adopted. In essence, what that meant was, the country was finally free to govern itself, marking its break from the shackles that had seen it so cruelly enslaved during the time of the British Raj.
Interestingly, the theme for the upcoming Republic Day on the 26th of January 2025, is ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’. When translated, this means ‘Golden India: Heritage and Development’.
Table of Contents
- Republic Day Origins: Republic Day History
- The Importance of 26th January: Decoding the Significance of the Indian Republic Day
- Republic Day Facts: More about the Indian Republic Day
The Importance of 26th January: Decoding the Significance of the Indian Republic Day
When we celebrate 26th January, its importance goes way beyond merely muttering ‘Happy Republic Day’ to one another.
Presenting the significance of Republic Day, that gives you even more answers to the oft-asked question, ‘Why do we celebrate Republic Day?’
- It is a celebration of the Document that set the foundation for India’s freedom
- It is a day to celebrate ‘values’
- It is a matter of pride for all Indians worldwide
When we speak of the Constitution, the next generation of our country, that is well-represented by our little ones, must understand its true significance. They must know that the founders of this Constitution took great pains in its drafting, and that they overcame many hurdles to see it finally ‘etched into stone’.
Long before there was talk of ‘diversity’ and ‘inclusivity’, there were the principles of ‘equality’ and ‘democracy’ that came into effect after the Constitution of India was adopted and our country became a Republic. If our Constitution had not seen the light of day, we would not be basking in the kind of freedom we find ourselves experiencing in this day and age. Republic Day, then, becomes a day to celebrate these values, that ensure that every citizen of India has the same rights and freedom, like the others.
It is not an uncommon sight to see India’s progress being celebrated all over the world. On the 26th of January, then, all Indians have the opportunity to revel in the sense of pride that comes from remembering how the struggle for independence from the British finally ended, and we became an independent nation. Moreover, this sense of pride is further amplified, when we savour the grand celebrations that take place in New Delhi on this day, showcasing India’s rich culture and unity in diversity.
Republic Day Facts: More about the Indian Republic Day
By now you know a good deal about the significance of India’s Republic Day. Here’s some interesting tidbits of information that will get you to feel even more ‘proud’ of your country, this Republic Day!
- In the year 1950, when the inaugural Republic Day Parade took place, the venue was the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. On this day, more than 100 aircraft and 3000 army men took part in the parade.
- The very first chief guest of the Republic Day Parade back in 1950, was the Indonesian President Sukarno.
- On the 26th of January, the President of India unfurls the National Flag at Kartavya Path.
- The marching contingents in the Republic Day parade have representation from the Indian Army, Navy, Airforce, and even the paramilitary and National Cadet Corps.
- The uniform and horse-mounted drills of the ‘President’s Bodyguard’, that refers to a particular cavalry regiment, are indeed a sight to behold.
- There is a ‘flypast’ that is conducted by the Indian Air Force on this day with the use of several aircraft, that include fighter jets and even helicopters.
- One can also enjoy the theatrics of the ‘Janbaz’, that refers to a daredevil motorcycle team. This is a group of stunt bikers who perform thrilling stunts on their bikes during the parade.
We are sure you had fun reading about the Indian Republic Day here. Not only do you know why 26 January is celebrated as India’s Republic Day, you are now also equipped with a whole lot of information, as to what makes this day truly special. We at Kangaroo Kids are hopeful that, armed with this knowledge, you will celebrate the upcoming Republic Day on the 26th of January, with an even greater sense of fervour.
