India celebrates its 73rd Republic Day on January 26 2022. On this day, the former British colony approved its new constitution, drafted by representatives of the Constituent Assembly. On January 26, 1950, India’s Constitution was established as it escaped from a terrible colonial history. However, the Indian constitution was initially enacted/legislated on November 26, 1949. Constitution Day is observed on November 26.
What is the history of Republic Day?
The Constituent Assembly was the entity tasked with drafting India’s Constitution. On December 9, 1946, it had its inaugural session, which was addressed by 207 members, nine of them were women. The assembly originally had 389 members, but after Declaring independence and division on August 15, 1947, the membership was lowered to 299.
The Drafting Committee, chaired by Dr. BR Ambedkar, was among the Constituent Assembly’s 17 departments. The objective of the Drafting Committee was to develop a new constitution for India. Out of over 7,600 modifications offered, the committee rejected approximately 2,400 while discussing and reviewing the constitution.
Importance of Republic Day:
Republic Day celebrates India’s spirit of independence and individuality. Purna Swaraj, the proclamation of India’s independence from colonial authority, was issued on this day in 1930 by the Congress Party. The day also honours Indian individuals’ democratic right to pick their administration. Significantly, this day is observed as a national holiday in recognition of the formation of the Indian Constitution.
5 Interesting Facts about Republic Day
1. The Republic Day procession was staged at Irwin Stadium (formerly National Stadium), Kingsway, Red Fort, and Ramlila venues between 1950 and 1954
2. Rajpath has hosted Republic Day events since 1955. Rajpath was formerly known as the Kingsway, after India’s then-emperor, George V. After freedom, the route was titled Rajpath, which also translates King’s Way in Indian language Hindi.
3. Every year, the principal speaker at the Republic Day celebration is the leader of a specific country. In 1950, Indonesian President Sukarno was the first principal visitor to visit India’s Republic Day ceremonies.
4. The procession begins with the entrance of India’s President. The President’s cavalier soldiers are the first to respect the National Flag. The National Anthem is performed, and a 21-gun salute follows. However, the shooting is not done with 21 canons. Moreover, It is done with 7 Indian army canons called as ’25-Ponders,’ each of which fires 3 rounds.
5. Each army soldier who participates in the parade must go through four stages of inquiry. Additionally, their weapons are thoroughly tested to guarantee they do not contain live ammo.
Read More: 74th Army Day Special: Interesting Facts About Indian Army