Indian Republic Day is an event that commemorates the date, 26 January 1950, on which the “Constitution of India” came into existence by replacing Government of India Act, 1935. This day is very significant in Indian history as on this day India became republic from the ‘British Dominion’. Every year, this day is celebrated with much enthusiasm throughout India. A massive parade is organized to showcase the growth of the country in every field.

Origin
Though India had got its freedom from the hands of the British in 15th August 1947, but there was no permanent constitution. The laws were based on the modified colonial Government of India Act, 1935, and India was then a dominion. India was then headed by King George VI, until the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. On 28 August, 1947, a Drafting Committee was appointed to draft a permanent constitution. This committee was headed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar along with several other members. A draft constitution was prepared and submitted to the Assembly on 4th November 1947. After many considerations and some modifications the 308 members of the Assembly signed two hand-written copies of the document on 24th January 1950.

Two days later, the constitution came into effect throughout the nation that is on 26th January, 1950. The Indian Constitution included 395 Articles and 8 Schedules. After the withdrawal of British Rule in 1947 it took India 894 days to come up with its own constitution. For the first time election were held and Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first President of free India. He took the oath at the Durban Hall in the Government House, which was followed by the Presidential drive to the Irwin Stadium. He unfurled the National Flag at the stadium. This transition of India into a sovereign democratic republic nation is indeed a historical event. Today, the Indian Constitution is the longest in the world. The national holiday is celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervor across the country.

Spirit of Indian Republic Day
Indian Republic Day is one of the most awaited events of the year. On 26th January, 1950, India became republic and since then it is a joyous occasion for the Indians as it commemorates the sacrifices of those souls who fought for the freedom. Every year, this day is celebrated with great elegance and pomp and it is also a gazetted holiday.

Celebrations
A huge effort is laid upon organizing cultural events and celebration throughout India on this day. Large military parades are held in New Delhi and the state capitals of India. Indian Army, Navy and Air Force and other traditional dance group represent themselves in this parade. The parade in New Delhi is a grand affair. Several branches of the armed forces, the police, National Cadet Corps, and students from various schools and institution take part in it. Participants of various states showcase their cultural heritage in a very colorfl manner.

Latest armaments that country has recently acquired are also on display during the parade. The parade starts from India Gate and proceeds through Rajpath. Children from various schools also get chance represent their cultural programmes in this parade. Republic Day is also the day for those people who have done an emblematic achievement. And it also is the time for them to get recognized for their achievements through rewards. Selected children are awarded the Children’s Bravery Awards on this day. Soldiers who have performed exceptionally are awarded the bravery medals, Param Veer Chakra, Veer Chakra and Maha Veer Chakra.

Public Life
Republic Day of India is a gazette holiday. Every National state and local government offices, post offices and banks are closed on this day. Organization or businesses other than this are closed or they have reduced their opening hours. Public transport is usually unaffected as many locals travel for celebrations. Republic Day parades cause significant disruption to traffic and there may be increased security on this date, particularly in areas such as New Delhi and state capitals. And last but not the least, this is the day when we come together and proudly identify ourselves as true Indians, and not with some particular religion or caste. This feeling for the country is what makes this day a special one from the rest of the days.

Republic Day Parade
The day commence with the offering of a floral wreath by the Indian Prime Minister to the Amar Jawan Jyoti. It commemorates those souls of the freedom fighters who fought for the freedom of their country. The Prime Minister is then escorted to the main dais at Rajpath, where he is joined by the President and the other dignitaries. The President unfurls the Indian flag. People show respect to the nation by playing the National Anthem.

A 21-gun salute is then presented in honor of the guests. Next in the row is the bravery award, medals for the bravery such as Ashok Chakra and Kirti Chakra. These are presented to those who have shown exceptional skills in their respective fields. This marks the beginning of the parade by the three pillars of Indian Army (the Army, the Navy and the Air Force). Dressed in their finest attires and adorned with official decorations, the soldiers take part in the parade. While passing by the President as gesture of respect they bring down their weapons and salute the president.

The winners of the gallantry awards move on the premise riding on open jeeps. Kids, who win National Bravery Awards, also participate riding on elephants. The parade continues in a grand manner with the Indian Military showcasing its their latest acquisitions (Missiles, radars, tanks etc). Different helicopters of the Indian Air Force showcase their skills and stunts while flying over the ceremonious ground. They also shower petals of rose on the audience who are present on the premise. Latest inventions and developments of the various government departments and ministries are also put on display during the parade.

Cultural groups from different parts of the country also exhibit their cultural heritage through dance and other forms. Children from various schools get a chance to display their tableaus on patriotic songs. This is followed by displays of dangerous and exciting skilful motorcycle shows by the armed forces personnel. And last but not the least, the jets and the fighter planes show their dangerous skills and they symbolically salute the President. It then marks the conclusion of the Republic Day parade.