Republic Day Holiday Celebration in India 2023 (26 Jan) – 74th Republic Day
Republic day holiday is one of three national holidays celebrated every year with great passion, fervour and enthusiasm. On January 26, 1950, the Constitution of India was established marking a great achievement for independent India. This accomplished India’s transition towards becoming an independent nation with a democratic government system.
In 2023 India will celebrate its 74th Republic Day. So, let’s look into the importance of this date and how it is celebrated across the country in detail.
| Date (In 2023) | 26 January 2023 |
| Day (In 2023) | Thursday |
| Significance | Establishment of Constitution of India |
| Also Called As | Gantantra Diwas |
| Celebration | Parade in Rajpath, New Delhi Cultural Programs and National Flag Hoisting in Schools |
When is Indian Republic Day?
Republic Day is celebrated annually on January 26, when all government offices remain closed. India will celebrate Republic Day or Gantantra Diwas on January 26, 2023, Thursday, with a magnificent parade in Rajpath, New Delhi. Glorious parades by the platoons from various armed forces and paramilitary forces, and national flag hoisting are some of the notable events on this day.
Importance of Indian Republic Day
India became an independent nation free from British rule on August 15, 1947. After independence, a new Constitution was drafted that would help the newly-formed government to administer and manage the newly independent nation. On January 26, 1950, the new Constitution of India came into effect, which solidified the establishment of the nation’s democratic government.
Therefore, with the Constitution of 1950, the nation was officially known as the “Republic of India”. On this day, Dr.Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the first Indian President, and the Constituent Assembly became the Parliament of India.
Why is Republic Day Celebrated?
On this day, India declared itself a Democratic, Sovereign and Republic state. This signifies that the supreme power rests in the hands of the common people and their elected representatives. Also, the elected or nominated person will become head of the state. It is this rule of law that is missing in some of the countries that do not have a democratic setup. This day is being celebrated with great pride and zeal.
This particular day was chosen for the Constitution to come into effect to honour the statement of Purna Swaraj declaration by the Indian National Congress in 1930.
How is Republic Day in India Celebrated?
Republic Day celebration takes place across the country with much zeal and patriotic fervour. However, Delhi being the Capital of India, witnesses the grandest celebration. The main event for this day is a magnificent and glorious parade from Rashtrapati Bhawan along the Rajpath in New Delhi, comprising several regiments of the Indian army, air force and navy.
1. Republic Day Celebration by Ministry of Defence
The Ministry of Defence organises this magnificent parade which is presided over by the President of India. The event showcases military competency of the country, followed by cultural displays portraying India’s diverse culture.
This event also pays tribute to martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s sake. The Prime Minister of India honours the martyrs by placing a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate and taking a moment of silence. After this, a 21-gun salute followed by the national anthem and national flag hoisting takes place. The entire event is live telecasted all over the country as well as abroad.
2. Republic Day Celebration by The Prime Minister
The Prime Minister bestows various Honour awards to the brave soldiers, including Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra and Paramvir Chakra. Moreover, general citizens and children who showed courage under challenging circumstances are honoured with awards. In military jeeps, winners of the gallantry award salute the President. At the same time, military troops march in the parade, while various dance troupes sing and perform.
This parade concludes when the India Air Force fighter jets fly while streaming the flag’s tri-colour. This event also showcases different ceremonious parades from all around India, performed as a tribute to India’s diversity, unity and rich cultural heritage.
At the State level, respective Chief Ministers, Governors and other significant leaders come together to unfurl the national flag. Parades and cultural events are also organised in some states.
3. How is Republic Day Celebrated in Schools
Republic Day is celebrated in various educational institutions, schools and government offices across the nation. During this day, various cultural programs, parades and national flag hoisting take place in different institutions as a mark of respect for the Constitution and the nation. In addition, public celebrations and private parties take place in most businesses and government offices.
Republic Day History, Background and Significance
India went through a number of difficulties before gaining independence. When the country’s Constitution was drafted in 1950, it formally became a democratic republic.
India’s Republic Day commemorates the implementation of its Constitution, whereas India’s Independence Day marks the country’s freedom from British rule. In 1947, India obtained its independence but remained as a Constitutional Monarchy with Earl Mountbatten as governor-general and George VI as head of state. The nation did not yet have a permanent Constitution.
All laws were based on the modified Colonial Government of India Act, of 1935. So a draft was submitted to the Constituent Assembly on November 4, 1947, spearheaded by Dr.BR Ambedkar to form a permanent Constitution.
On November 25, 1949, Dr.B R Ambedkar, in his final speech, stated different alterations that Indian citizens would observe in the social and economic structure of the nation. For instance, after January 26, we would enter into a life of contradictions. In social and economic life, we will face inequality, and equality will prevail in politics.
Before adopting the Constitution, the Assembly held 166 public sessions over 2 years, 11 months and 18 years. After much deliberation and changes, 308 Assembly members signed on two copies (one in Hindi and the other in English) on January 24, 1950. After 2 days, on January 26, 1950, the document came into effect across the nation. Furthermore, Dr.Rajendra Prasad began his first term as President of the Indian Union.
Under the transitional provisions of the new Constitution, the Constituent Assembly came to be known as the “Parliament of India”. The Constitution establishes certain fundamental rights that should be enjoyed by all citizens of the nation.
Final Word
The nation celebrates the Republic Day holiday as a symbol of Independent India and honours the process by which the Indian Constitution came into existence. From hoisting the National flag and singing songs that evoke patriotic feelings to magnificent parades by the military attended by the President and Prime Minister along with other notable citizens, Republic Day is celebrated with pomp all over India. 26th January is a national holiday – plan your day, make sure to attend the flag hoisting, allow your children to take part in various events taking place in your neighbourhood and remember the great martyrs who helped India get independence from 200 years of oppression.
FAQs
Ans. Republic Day is a public holiday in India where people celebrate the day when India’s Constitution came into effect. It is celebrated annually on January 26 by hoisting the national flag, followed by parades, public celebrations and other cultural events.
Ans. In this year, India will celebrate its 74th Republic Day. This year, thousands of people will gather at New Delhi ‘Kartavya Path’ to witness the Republic Day Parade. Also, live streaming will be accessible on various platforms for free. Here people can view the grand celebration of the event from the comfort of their homes.
Ans. All types of local, state and national government offices will remain closed on this day. On the other hand, business organisations and commercial outlets should reduce their working hours or stay closed. However, public transport and all emergency services will remain open.
Ans. A republic country is a nation in which representatives of the country’s citizens rule a state. Under this system, people give their power to elected representatives who can represent them and their concerns. Some prominent examples of republic countries include the United States, Kenya, India, South Korea, France, Peru, Indonesia, and others.
Ans. Republic day is a public holiday on 26th January every year. Government has announced all the local, state and office shall be closed on Indian Republic day.
Disclaimer
This article is solely for educational purposes. Navi doesn't take any responsibility for the information or claims made in the blog.
