Republic Day
Republic Day, in India, national holiday celebrated annually on January 26 to commemorate the entry into force of the Constitution of India on that day in 1950, marking the transition of India to a sovereign democratic republic. Distinct from Independence Day, which annually commemorates India’s liberation from British rule on August 15, 1947, Republic Day highlights the establishment of a government by the people, for the people.
History
The roots of Republic Day trace back to the Indian Independence Act of July 18, 1947, which ended British rule and transferred legislative authority to the Constituent Assembly of India. The Constituent Assembly, tasked with drafting the constitution of the country, formed a drafting committee chaired by Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the country’s first law minister, often referred to as the “Father of the Indian Constitution.” A draft of the document was submitted in November 1948 to the Constituent Assembly, which publicly debated and adjusted the text over the following year. January 26 was selected as the date of the Constitution’s promulgation, in recognition of the Purna Swaraj (“Complete Self-Governance”) resolution, a call for India’s complete independence, adopted by the Indian National Congress on January 26, 1930. The Constitution, one of the longest and most detailed in the world, established India as a democratic republic and a union of states.
The Indian Constitution, the longest written constitution in the world, contains 448 articles, 12 schedules, and 104 amendments. The original copies were handwritten in Hindi and English.
Key events and celebrations
Republic Day is celebrated annually in New Delhi as a showcase of India’s cultural diversity, military strength, and historical legacy. The holiday’s celebrations highlight the country’s unity and progress. Key features include the following.
Amar Jawan Jyoti ceremony
The Republic Day celebrations take place primarily in New Delhi, though similar events are held across the country. The festivities begin with the Indian prime minister’s laying of a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti (“Light of the Immortal Soldier”), located at India Gate in New Delhi. This solemn act honors the members of the Indian armed forces who sacrificed their lives for the country. Amar Jawan Jyoti symbolizes gratitude to the soldiers. After the wreath laying, two minutes of silence is observed to pay tribute to them.
Republic Day parade
The parade, a centerpiece of the celebrations, proceeds from Rashtrapati Bhavan (“President’s House”) on a roughly 2-mile-long (3-km-long) boulevard called Kartavya Path (“Path of Duty”), passes India Gate, and ends at the Red Fort. It begins with the Indian president’s hoisting of the national flag, followed by a performance of the national anthem, and a 21-gun salute. The parade includes:
- Military Displays: Tanks, missiles, radar systems, advanced fighter jets and other elements showcase India’s defense capabilities. Aerobatic teams such as Surya Kiran and Sarang perform breathtaking flybys.
- Marching Contingents: Precision marches are executed by elite contingents from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as well as paramilitary forces such as the Central Reserve Police Force and the Border Security Force.
- Cultural Tableaux: Colorful floats from various states and union territories display regional traditions, folk art, and progress. Themes often include historical milestones, environmental awareness, and social initiatives.
- Performances: Schoolchildren and cultural troupes present synchronized dances and music, celebrating India’s unity in diversity.
The Republic Day parade features two unique contingents: the 61st Cavalry Regiment of the Indian Army, the world’s only active horse-mounted cavalry unit, and the Border Security Force’s camel contingent, the only one of its kind, whose mounts are adorned with elaborate decorations and led by a deputy commandant.
The chief guest
Each year, a foreign dignitary is invited as the chief guest to emphasize India’s diplomatic ties and global outreach. This tradition, which began in 1950 with Indonesian Pres. Sukarno, has seen many notable guests. In 1989 Nguyen Van Linh, the general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, was invited. Nelson Mandela, the president of South Africa, attended in 1995, symbolizing India’s solidarity with the anti-apartheid movement. In 2015 U.S. Pres. Barack Obama was invited, and 2018 featured leaders from ASEAN countries, including Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar and Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines. In 2023 Egyptian Pres. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was the chief guest, followed by French Pres. Emmanuel Macron in 2024.
Awards and honors
Republic Day is also a day to honor exceptional bravery, service, and achievement. The president of India bestows several prestigious awards during this period, including:
- Gallantry Awards: These include the Param Vir Chakra (India’s highest military honor), Ashoka Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Vir Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra, recognizing military personnel and civilians who have displayed extraordinary courage.
- Civilian Awards: The Padma Awards—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—recognize contributions in diverse fields such as the arts and sciences, literature, sports, and public service. These awards underline the spirit of excellence and dedication.
- President’s Police Medals: These are awarded in three categories: gallantry, distinguished service, and meritorious service. Recipients are recognized for acts of bravery, long-term service, and exceptional commitment to law enforcement.
- Correctional Services Medals: Prison personnel receive awards for gallantry, meritorious service, and distinguished service. These recognize extraordinary efforts in performing prison duties, including handling riots and preventing escapes.
- Children’s Awards: The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (“Prime Minister’s National Award for Children”) recognizes children aged 5–18 for exceptional achievement in sports, arts, innovation, social service, bravery, and academics.
- Bravery Awards for Civilians: The Jeevan Raksha Padak (“Lifesaving Medal”) awards are presented to civilians who have displayed extraordinary bravery in saving lives during accidents or emergencies. It has three categories: Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak (sarvottam meaning “the best”), Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak (uttam meaning “excellent”), and Jeevan Raksha Padak.
Beating Retreat ceremony
The Beating Retreat ceremony, held annually on January 29 at Raisina Hill and Vijay Chowk near Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, concludes India’s Republic Day celebrations. This event, rooted in military tradition, combines music and ceremonial precision to honor the country’s armed forces and cultural heritage. The tradition dates back to the 17th century, when drums signaled troops to return to camp at sunset. Adopted in England during King James II’s reign, it became a formal military ritual. India introduced the Beating Retreat in 1955 during the visit of Queen Elizabeth II, and it has been an integral part of the celebrations ever since.
The event begins with the president of India’s reception of a ceremonial salute. Bands from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force and the Delhi Police and the Central Armed Police Forces perform a mix of traditional and contemporary tunes such as “Sare Jahan Se Achha” (“Better Than the Entire World”) and “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon” (“O People of My Country”). The lowering of the national flag is marked by a bugle call, and the ceremony ends with the retreat of the bands and the illumination of government buildings.