Ever tried to find out why 26^th January is called the ‘Republic Day’. Let’s know the history behind this big day, some hidden facts and why something special is expected from this year’s Republic Day Celebrations.

What does “Republic” mean?

A republic is a form of government in which power resides in the people, and the government is ruled by elected leaders run according to the law rather than inherited or appointed.

Currently, 135 of the world’s 206 sovereign states use the word “republic” as part of their official names.

History of Republic Day!

India became independent of the United Kingdom on 15^th August 1947 but India did not have a permanent constitution at this time.

The drafting committee presented the constitution’s first draft to the national assembly on 4^th November 1947. The national assembly signed the final English and Hindi language versions of the constitution on January 24, 1950.

Republic Day 26^th January 1950 is the day on which the Constitution of India came into force replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India.

The Indian Constitution was planned and drafted by Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar.

The Constitution was passed by the Constituent Assembly of India on 26 November 1949 but was adopted on 26 January 1950 with a democratic government system, completing the country’s transition toward becoming an independent republic.

26 January was selected for this purpose because it was this day in 1930 when the Declaration of Indian Independence (PurnaSwaraj) was proclaimed by the Indian National Congress.

On 26^th January 1930, Dr. Rajendra Prasad took oath as India’s first president at the Durbar Hall in the Government House, followed by a residential drive along a route to the Irwin Stadium, where he unfurled India’s national flag. Ever since the historic day, January 26 is celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervor across India.

6 Interesting facts that you might not know about Republic Day!

Let’s have a look!

 
The main Republic Day celebration is held in the national capital, New Delhi, at the Rajpath before the President of India. On this day, ceremonious parades take place at the Rajpath, which are performed as a tribute to India.It was the first time on 26^th January 1955 when the parade was organized at Rajpath.

Since 1950, India has been hosting head of state or government of another country as the state guest of honour for Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.The guest country is chosen after a deliberation of strategic, economic and political interests.

During 1950-1954, Republic Day celebrations were organized at different venues (like Irwin Stadium, Kingsway, Red Fort and Ramlila Grounds).

Our Constitution is the longest in the world. You definitely cannot read it in a single day.

Now, writing the constitution was not simple. The Assembly gathered for 166 days that was spread over two years, 11 months and 18 days before the final version was formed. Yes, it was all hand-written and it was on the 26th of January that marked the celebration of Independence in its true sense.

There are just two original copies of the Constitution in the country written in Hindi and English. They have been preserved in helium-filled cases in the Parliament of India. This constitution has been calligraphed and not printed. Such photo lithographic copies are in circulation and only 1000 copies have been written till date.

Whats’ new you should expect from this Republic Day, 26 January 2017?

The crown prince of Abu Dhabi – Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan will be the chief guest at the Republic Day Parade of India on 26^th January 2017. It’s the first-time Sheik Mohammad is invited as chief guest for Republic Day function.

Here’s a list of some new additions to look out for at this Republic Day celebrations.

Decoration with Date Palm:

The venue of Republic Day Parade, Rajpath will be decorated with rows of potted plants of Date Palm.

A Pyramid like structure of palm leaves covered with moss will be designed for the heartiest welcome of the Chief Guest from UAE.

UAE is one of the top cultivators of date palm all over the world and dates are its national fruit. UAE also hosts an annual International Date Palm Festival.

Debut Show:

The National Security Guards will perform a surprising Debut Show to represent their brilliant skills during the parade at Rajpath on 26^th January 2017.

This Debut Show will include the eye-catching activities like –

1. Singing the NSG anthem written by Gulzaar – “Hain Na Hai Na Hum Hindustan, Hum Rang Rang Hain, Phir Bhi Sang Hain” to show the India’s counter terror force.

2. Performances by –

Anti-Hijack Team

Anti-Sabotage Team

Combat Free-Fallers

CBRNE Team – an advanced terror fighting force of commandos wearing radiation protective suit for protection from chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear terror threats or attack)

Deep Divers – can kill enemies under water).

3. There is also a debut of an NSG vehicle Sherpa (A bullet proof armored anti hijacking vehicle).

It is itself a commando, can resist powerful explosions and go under water too.

Let’s all Pledge together and stand for these obligations!

 
To Respect Women and treat them equal. Protect them, respect their individuality and encourage them to come forward.

To save the Girl Child and educate them.

Keep our neighborhood, our city, our state and our India Clean. Contribute and Make India Green and Clean.

Say no to Corruption, Bureaucracy and Racial Discrimination.

Save and conserve these 3 ‘Valuable’ resources Water, Electricity and Petrol.

Save Tigers. Contribute in preserving this extinct animal breed.

Say No to Drugs. Quit Smoking and Drinking Alcohol.

After reading this blog if a feeling of patriotism did arouse in you, then share these facts amongst all Indians!!! Happy Republic Day! Don’t let the spirit of patriotism sleep in your hearts.

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