Let’s Celebrate 72 Historic Years of India on This Republic Day 2021!

“It is a great day for our country. India has had a long and chequered history; parts of it were cloudy and parts bright and sunlit. At no period, even during the most glorious eras of which we have record, was this whole country brought under one Constitution and one rule.” –  Dr. Rajendra Prasad after taking oath as the First President of the Republic of India.

India is a country of diverse cultures and religions and home to many historic wonders and a glorious past. Among the colourful festivities that India boasts of, the two national historical days, i.e. Independence Day and Republic Day have their significance deeply rooted in India’s history. While the Independence Day remembers the day when our nation strongly got freed from the shackles of British, Republic Day is celebrated to honour the making of the Indian constitution that came into force on January 26, 1950, making India one of the biggest democracies in the world.

From India’s First Woman Fighter Pilot to Fit India Movement, Here’s a Sneak Peak into Republic Day 2021!

Since the COVID-19 has resurfaced with a new wave, the Republic Day celebrations in the capital of India will be different from all the previous years. Proudly taking its stage as the world’s greatest democratic nation celebrates its Republic Day, we witness a parade of celebrations, performances and events every year!

We bring you an exclusive sneak peak into Republic Day 2021 and its celebrations!

Meet India’s First Woman Fighter Pilot!

As every nation celebrates its own ‘firsts’, India takes pride in announcing the first woman fighter pilot- Flight lieutenant Bhawana Kanth who will be a part of the parade this year. 

No Chief Guest for Republic Day 2021

Due to the outbreak of new COVID cases, Boris Johnson- British Prime Minister cancelled his trip for the celebration. There will not be any foreign dignitaries to attend this year’s celebration.

A Call for Aatma Nirbhar Bharat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will elaborate on his vision of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant/Self-sufficient India).

Smaller Marching Contingents

The armed forces and paramilitary marching continents will be lesser in number.

Fit India Movement

Many school children will also exhibit a performance on the theme ‘Hum Fit Toh India Fit’ which is inspired by the ‘Fit India Movement’ launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Spotlight on Folk Artists in Republic Day Parade 2021!

Only 400 children and folk artists will perform this year, as compared to the whopping number of 600 participants in the year 2021.

Lesser Spectators

The parade path will be restricted to the National Stadium, instead of the Red Fort. There will be limited spectators allowed to prevent the spread of Covid 19.

Historic Significance of 26th January

As our nation prospers and embraces its diversity, let’s not forget the significance and story of Republic Day amidst the pomp and gaiety. Here are a few historical events that happened on 26th January throughout the years:

• The Indian republic and its constitution came into operation on 26th January 1950.
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad took oath as India’s first president on 26th January 1950.
• Hindi was declared as the official language of India on 26th January 1965.
• The Indian National Congress (INC) party voted for total independence (Purna Swaraj) from the British Raj on January 26, 1930.

Things to Do on Republic Day

Every year we celebrate the patriotic fervor through programs and performances held in our buildings, or at school/colleges/offices. It is important to maintain the same spirit despite being restricted to our homes. Here are a few activities that you can do on Republic Day with your family, friends, or even by yourself.

• Read books about Indian History and the struggle for India’s Independence, as well as Indian freedom fighters.
• Find out about the various important revolutions in India during the struggle for independence. 
• Understand the Constitution of India by going through its details.
• Watch a patriotic movie or film of India’s Independence. 
• Read articles and speeches given by the great freedom fighters and glorify their names.
• Spread the knowledge or stories you know about the nation’s struggle, its leaders, etc with your friends, siblings, or family members.
• Republic Day is also a time to go back to the music of the golden era and listen to some of the most melodious and lyrical patriotic songs written by our songwriters.
• You could also decorate your home and get your siblings or family together to enjoy the above-mentioned activities. 

“We end today, a period of ill fortune and India discovers herself again. The achievement we celebrate today is but a step, an opening of opportunity, to the greater triumphs and achievements that await us. Are we brave enough and wise enough to grasp this opportunity and accept the challenge of the future?” – Jawaharlal Nehru in his speech “Tryst with Destiny.”

Explore: Comparative Development Experiences of India and its Neighbours

India’s Republic Day is of great significance and honour. It is essential to know and spread the names of people who fought for the freedom we enjoy. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more educational content and give us a follow at Instagram, Youtube, LinkedIn, Quora, and Facebook to make sure you don’t miss out! Happy Republic Day!