Indian tricolour flag fluttering and a parade with a montage of displaying the rich culture of the Indian states, the might of the military, navy and air force are worth watching on the Republic Day. We also get to see, the technological and scientific advancements that our country has made since independence, are some of the many things that fill every Indian heart with pride.
While India celebrates its 69th Republic Day this year, here are some of the facts that every Indian should know:
– On January 26, 1930, India celebrated its Independence Day or Purna Swaraj Day, when the Declaration of Independence was officially promulgated. A resolution was passed by the Indian National Congress where it was declared Purna Swaraj – complete freedom from the British Raj.
– However, in 1947, since August 15 turned out to be the official Independence Day, the Indian Constitution was implemented on this day in 1950, to mark the 1930 declaration.
– The Republic Day was first celebrated in 1950, three years after we achieved independence from the British.
– During the R-Day celebrations in 1950, the first chief guest was President Sukarno of Indonesia.
– The first President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad took oath at Durbar Hall of government house on January 26, 1950.
– Republic Day is not just a one-day celebration it is rather celebrated for 3-days ending it with the Beating Retreat on January 29.
– Interestingly, the R-Day parade was not held at Rajpath always. During the period of 1950–1954, the celebrations were prearranged at several venues including Irwin Stadium, Kingsway, Red Fort and Ramlila Grounds. It was only in 1955, the parade was held at Rajpath and since then the venue became the permanent location for holding the celebrations.
– Pakistan’s Governor General Malik Ghulam Muhammad was the first chief guest in 1955 for the parade held at Rajpath.
– Abide With Me, a Christian hymn by Scottish Anglican Henry Francis Lyte, is heard during R-Day parade since it was one of Mahatma Gandhi’s favourite songs.
– And on this day that the gallantry medals are awarded.