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Interesting facts about Republic Day in India make this national celebration even more fascinating for students! Observed on January 26 every year, Republic Day marks the day India’s Constitution came into effect in 1950, turning the nation into a sovereign republic. In 2025, India will be celebrating its 76th Republic Day. As the day is around the corner, students will get a chance to participate in related activities such as participating in a Republic Day quiz. To help them prepare for such events, here is a blog on interesting facts about Republic Day of India.
Table of Contents
- 1 Republic Day Marks the Adoption of India’s Constitution
- 2 January 26 Honors the Purna Swaraj Resolution of 1930
- 3 Rajpath Became the Permanent Venue for Republic Day Parade in 1955
- 4 Malik Ghulam Mohammed Was the First Rajpath Chief Guest in 1955
- 5 Every Activity in the Parade Is Pre-Planned to Perfection
- 6 Dr Sukarno Was the First Republic Day Chief Guest in 1950
- 7 Parade Preparations Begin Six Months in Advance
- 8 The 21-Gun Salute Uses Seven 25-Pounder Cannons
- 9 Military Power is Displayed Near India Gate
- 10 Tableaux Move at a Speed of 5 km/hr
- 11 Parade Groups Cover 12 Kilometers in Rehearsals
- 12 Four Security Checks for Parade Participants
- 13 The Flypast Features 41 Aircraft Managed by the Western Air Command
- 14 Mahatma Gandhi’s Favorite Song “Abide with Me” Was Dropped
- 15 Army Personnel Use INSAS and Tavor Rifles in the Parade
- 16 Republic Day Parade Costs Have Increased by 54.51% Since 2001
- 17 The Beating Retreat Ceremony Marks the Conclusion of Republic Day
- 18 FAQs
Republic Day Marks the Adoption of India’s Constitution
Celebrated on January 26 annually, Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. This distinguishes it from Independence Day, which celebrates the end of British rule on August 15, 1947. The Indian Independence Act of 1947 transferred legislative power to the Constituent Assembly. This marked the beginning of India’s journey toward drafting its own constitution and establishing democratic governance.
January 26 Honors the Purna Swaraj Resolution of 1930
The date was chosen to honor the Purna Swaraj resolution passed by the Indian National Congress on January 26, 1930. This resolution demanded complete independence from British rule, symbolizing India’s sovereignty.
Rajpath Became the Permanent Venue for Republic Day Parade in 1955
Before 1955, Republic Day parades were held at Irwin Stadium, Kingsway, Red Fort, and Ramleela Maidan. Rajpath, now Kartavyapath, became the permanent venue that year. Previously called Kingsway, it was renamed to emphasize India’s democratic ideals.
Malik Ghulam Mohammed Was the First Rajpath Chief Guest in 1955
The first Republic Day parade at Rajpath in 1955 was graced by Pakistan’s Governor-General Malik Ghulam Mohammed. This marked the beginning of hosting international dignitaries at the iconic venue.
Every Activity in the Parade Is Pre-Planned to Perfection
Every moment of the parade, from the flag hoisting to the closing ceremony, is meticulously pre-organized. Even a minor delay can disrupt the tightly scheduled event, showcasing the importance of discipline and coordination.
Dr Sukarno Was the First Republic Day Chief Guest in 1950
Indonesia’s President Dr. Sukarno was the first chief guest at the Republic Day parade in 1950. However, in 1955, during the first parade at Rajpath, Pakistan’s Governor-General Malik Ghulam Mohammed was the chief guest.
Parade Preparations Begin Six Months in Advance
Participants start preparing in July of the previous year, training for over 600 hours. They arrive at Rajpath by 3 AM on January 26th, fully ready for their formal performance during the grand celebrations.
The 21-Gun Salute Uses Seven 25-Pounder Cannons
The 21-gun salute involves seven 25-pounder cannons firing three rounds synchronized with the National Anthem. The first shot is fired at the anthem’s start, and the last one concludes after 52 seconds. These cannons, made in 1941, are integral to army traditions.
Military Power is Displayed Near India Gate
A special camp near India Gate showcases tanks, armored vehicles, and modern military equipment. Each piece undergoes a rigorous 10-stage inspection and preparation process, emphasizing the nation’s military prowess.
Tableaux Move at a Speed of 5 km/hr
Tableaux in the parade travel at a controlled speed of 5 km/hr to ensure thorough viewing. Drivers navigate through small windows, highlighting the precision required in their movements during the showcase.
Parade Groups Cover 12 Kilometers in Rehearsals
During rehearsals, parade contingents march 12 kilometers. However, the official route on January 26th spans 9 kilometers. Judges evaluate each group on 200 parameters to determine the best marching contingent.
Four Security Checks for Parade Participants
Each army personnel undergoes four levels of security checks before participating. Their weapons are thoroughly inspected to ensure no live ammunition is carried during the parade, prioritizing safety.
The Flypast Features 41 Aircraft Managed by the Western Air Command
The grand finale of the parade, the flypast, involves 41 aircraft from the Indian Air Force. These aircraft take off from various bases and arrive over Rajpath in perfect synchronization, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Mahatma Gandhi’s Favorite Song “Abide with Me” Was Dropped
The next in this list of interesting facts about Republic Day is a less-known one. The song “Abide with Me,” historically played at the Republic Day parade, was Mahatma Gandhi’s favorite. However, it has been excluded from recent celebrations due to changing preferences in ceremonial music.
Army Personnel Use INSAS and Tavor Rifles in the Parade
Indian army personnel march with indigenously made INSAS rifles, while Special Security Forces use Tavor rifles from Israel. This mix represents both Indian advancements and international collaboration in defense.
Republic Day Parade Costs Have Increased by 54.51% Since 2001
Expenditure on the parade rose from ₹145 crores in 2001 to ₹320 crores in 2014, reflecting the growing scale and grandeur of the event. The rising costs underscore the elaborate arrangements and logistics involved.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony Marks the Conclusion of Republic Day
Held on January 29th at Vijay Chowk, the Beating Retreat ceremony features performances by the Army, Navy, and Air Force bands. It symbolizes the formal conclusion of Republic Day celebrations.
Read More Blogs on Republic Day
FAQs
Republic Day is actually celebrated to commemorate the day when the Indian constitution came into force in 1950. It not only replaced the existing Government of India Act 1935 but also converted India into a sovereign state.
Indonesian President Sukarno was the first chief guest of India’s very first Republic Day parade.
The Republic Day theme for 2023 was Jan Bhagidari or participation of the common people.
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