Every year Republic Day is celebrated in India on 26th January with grandeur. Magnificent parades at Janpath, New Delhi, comprising the Indian National Army and national flag hoisting in various parts of the country are common practices followed on this day. In year 2022, it will mark India’s 73rd Republic Day.
When is Republic Day in 2022?
Year | Day | Festival |
2022 | Wednesday | Republic Day |
Significance of Republic Day
After gaining independence from the British rule, the new constitution was drafted by the drafting committee helmed by Dr.BR Ambedkar. The Indian Constitution came into effect on 26 January 1950, which affirmed India’s existence as an independent republic. January 26th was chosen as the date because on this day in 1930, the Indian National Congress proclaimed Purna Swaraj, the declaration of India’s independence from the colonial rule.
How is Republic Day celebrated?
Republic Day is celebrated all over India with great pride and zeal. It’s a day to honour the Constitution of independent India. National flag hoisting in schools and colleges are common. Cultural events championing India’s struggle for freedom is held nationwide. In New Delhi, the national flag is hoisted by the President of India at India Gate.
The grandest of parades takes place at Rajpath, New Delhi. The parade is presided over by the Indian President and is organised by the Ministry of Defence. Other than showcasing its military prowess, the event also champions India’s diverse culture.
The event also pays homage to the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the country. The Prime Minister of India honours the martyrs by putting a wreath 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 conferred 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 happens with the President of India accepting the salute from different regiments. The parade concludes 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 grandest of Republic Day celebrations.
Symbols
Republic Day symbolises the right spirit of Independent India. The important symbols of the festival include the exhibition of military equipment, the national flag and military equipment.
January 26, India Holiday
Republic Day is a gazetted holiday in India and is celebrated on 26 January every year to honor the establishment of Indian constitution. The constitution was adopted by the Indian Constituency Assembly on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950 with a democratic system. It has been one of the three public holidays in India. Independence Day and Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti are other two public holidays that are celebrated on 15 August and 02 October every year.
Public Life During Republic Day Holiday 2022
Like mentioned earlier, Republic Day is a public holiday on 26 January every year. All local, state and national level government offices shall remain closed on the day. Commercial outlets and other business organisations shall remain closed or have reduced working hours. Public transport remains unaffected since many locals travel for celebrating the festival. Republic Day parades cause substantial disruption to traffic. There may be increased security on the day.