After attaining independence from the British rule, the new constitution was
enrolled by
the drafting committee under the deanship of Dr BR Ambedkar. The Indian Constitution
came
into effect on 26 January 1950, which declared India’s occurrence as an independent
republic. January 26th was chosen as the date because on this day in 1930, the
Indian
National Congress revealed Purna Swaraj, the declaration of India’s independence
from
the
colonial rule.
Republic Day signifies the right spirit of Independent and individual India. The
important
symbols of the festival include the exhibition of military equipment, the national
flag
and military equipment.
Republic Day is celebrated all over India with great gratification and joy. It’s a
day
to honour the Constitution of independent India. National flag hoisting in schools
and
colleges are regular. Cultural events advocating India’s struggle for freedom is
held
countrywide. In New Delhi, the national flag is hoisted by the President of India at
India Gate. The gloriest of parades takes place at Rajpath, New Delhi. The parade is
conducted by the Indian President and is arranged by the Ministry of Defence. Other
than
displaying its military prowess, the event also promotes India’s diverse culture.
The
event also colonizes to the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the country.
The
Prime Minister of India honours the martyrs by putting a ringlet at the Amar Jawan
Jyoti
at India Gate. It’s followed by a 21-gun salute, national flag hoisting, and
national
anthem. Awards are presented to the brave soldiers in the form of Paramvir Chakra,
Ashok
Chakra, and Vir Chakra. Even children and general citizens who have displayed
courage in
times of adversity are honoured with awards.
The winners of gallantry awards salute the President in military jeeps. This is
followed by India’s display of its military power. March-past by the armed forces,
police, and National Cadet Corps also takes place with the President of India
receiving the salute from different regiments. The parade comes to an end when the
Indian Air Force fighter jets flypast Janpath. The celebration takes place all over
the country, however, Delhi being the capital of India, witnesses the largest of
Republic Day celebrations. Live Webcast of the Republic Day Parade is made
accessible every year to millions of people who wish to view the parade over the
Internet. After the event is over, the exclusive footage is made obtainable as
'video on demand'.Celebrations, though on a relatively smaller scale, are also held
in all state capitals, where the Governor of the state unfurls the flag. Same
celebrations are also held at district headquarters, subdivisions, talukas, and
panchayats.
After all the celebrations are done the Beating The Retreat takes place which
officially denotes the end of Republic Day festivities. All important Government
Buildings are beautifully adorned with sparkly lights every evening from 26th to
29th. Beating the Retreat ceremony is conducted on the evening of January 29, the
third day after the Republic Day. The drummers also give a solo performance (known
as the Drummer's Call). The bands march back playing a popular martial tune Saare
Jahan Se Achcha. At exactly 6 pm, National Flag is lowered, and the National Anthem
is sung, bringing the Republic Day celebrations to a formal end.