Happy Republic Day
India is a nation where humanity has lived since ages. It is a country which is blessed with different religions, societies, cultures and languages, all interplaying with each other in harmony.
The month of January creates an aura of patriotism as Republic Day of India falls in this month. It was on 26th January, 1950 that Republic of India was formed and the Constitution of India came into force. Over these years India has come a long way in overcoming various obstacles and hurdles to rejoice in the moments of triumph, glory and the pride of being an independent nation. Republic Day reminds us of the fulfillment of the pledge that was made on the midnight of Independence as a “tryst with destiny”.
This day also marks the recognition that we Indians thrive in a sovereign, secular, and democratic land that stands for the principles of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity, the golden words that form the essence of our Preamble.
Jubilation
Republic Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm throughout the country. The patriotic fervour of every Indian on this day brings the whole country united. Republic Day is celebrated all over the country at all the administrative units like the capital cities, district headquarters, sub divisions, talukas, and panchayats with the same enthuse and vibe.
To honour the occasion, a grand celebration is held at New Delhi, the national capital. The celebrations begin with spectacular presentation projecting India’s military prowess. The President of India – External website that opens in a new window unfurls the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem. The different regiments of Army, Navy and Air Force march in-synchrony from Rashtrapati Bhavan, along the Rajpath and reach the India Gate saluting the President of India, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces.
This is followed by a massive parade by other military troops including State Regiments and Paramilitary Forces of India. A spectacular presentation from different parts of the country representing different folk dances, festivals, historical locations is displayed next. Children from various schools present folk dances from different States in picturesque costumes marking the cultural unity of India. Cultural events and traditional folk dances create an ambience of merriment and enthusiasm. Soldiers who have performed exceptionally are awarded the bravery medals, Param Veer Chakra, Veer Chakra and Maha Veer Chakra. National Bravery Awards are given to children who have performed outstanding deeds of bravery and selfless sacrifice. A streak of jet planes of Indian Air Force; leave a trial of coloured smoke, showering rose petals on the spectators marking the end of the grand day.
A Salute to the Legends
January 30th is marked as Martyrs Day, to honour and pay homage to those martyrs who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom, welfare and progress of our beloved country. It was on January 30, 1948 when Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated, since then every year the Nation pays homage to the Mahatma and other martyrs on this day.
The President, the Vice President – External website that opens in a new window, the Prime Minister – External website that opens in a new window, the Defence Minister, and the three service Chiefs’ gather at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat and lay wreaths on the Samadhi decorated with multi-colour flowers. The inter-services contingent reverses arms as a mark of respect to the martyrs. A religious prayer ceremony is held and Gandhiji’s much-loved bhajans are sung.
Celebrate with the National Portal of India
Be a part of the Republic Day celebrations 2010 with the National Portal of India and view the Republic Day Parade Glimpses – External website that opens in a new window and Address to the Nation by the President – External website that opens in a new window, all through our My India My Pride section. Also check out the list of various Gallantry Awards like Paramvir Chakra, Ashok Chakra and Vir Chakra. Greet your friends and relatives with exclusive Republic Day greeting cards – External website that opens in a new window from the National Portal’s e-Greetings section.
The Spirit of Republic Day
The real spirit behind such a grand celebration is not only to celebrate India’s secularism and democracy but also to make every Indian feel proud of our rich culture, languages, dialects, traditions, customs and religions that makes India a marvellous multi-cultural country. Let’s all come together and feel proud, identify ourselves as true Indians, and not to a particular religion or caste. Let’s take a pledge deep inside our hearts to promote one feeling, one religion and one thought: of Being a true Indian.
Jai Hind
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