There is more to January 26th than parades and patriotic songs; it is a day rich in history, tradition, and fascinating facts. There is a lot more to this significant event, even though most of us only know it as the day India adopted its Constitution. For example, did you know the inaugural Republic Day parade was not held at Rajpath? Or was our Constitution handwritten without any printed copies? Continue reading to discover some lesser-known facts about Indian Republic Day.
Republic Day is marked with unparallel enthusiasm nationwide. The day also makes us think about our civil rights and duties. It inspires us to play a role (and make a difference) in the future of our nation. Get ready to uncover some mind-blowing, little-known facts about Republic Day that will leave you saying, “Wow, I didn’t know that!”.
Why is Indian Republic Day celebrated on January 26th?
The choice of January 26 as Republic Day is not accidental. This date holds deep historical significance for the people of India. On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress, under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, declared Purna Swaraj (complete independence) from British rule. This declaration played a crucial role in India’s quest for independence. As a result, January 26 was chosen as Republic Day, commemorating the nation’s liberation from colonialism and acceptance of self-government.
10 Lesser-Known Facts About The Indian Republic Day
Apart from the ceremonial raising of the flag and military parades, there is a long history and many undocumented facts about India’s Republic Day. Following are 10 fascinating facts about Indian Republic Day.
1. The First Republic Day Parade Had No Helicopter Flypast
The epic helicopter flypast during the Republic Day parade is an event, by tradition, that has come to stand as a nucleus for celebration. However, there was no helicopter flypast during the first Republic Day parade.
The Indian Air Force has included impressive flights in Republic Day celebrations for many years, but it was not until 1962 that helicopters were officially added to the event’s aerial displays. In 1962, three helicopters dropped petals over Rajpath. (1).
2. Interesting Fact About Republic Day Parade Timing
The Republic Day parade’s timing is always scheduled to start at precisely 10:30 AM. However, very few know that this time is not arbitrary. They typically schedule the Republic Day parade to start at 10:30 AM to ensure optimal lighting conditions for the event. By this time, the sun is high enough in the sky to provide good natural light, which is ideal for both the parade participants and the spectators. The timing also allows for better visibility for the television broadcasts and media coverage, ensuring that the event is captured with the best lighting.
3. The Indian Constitution Is One of the Longest in The World
India holds the honor of having the longest constitution in the world. It covers every aspect of governance, from the functioning of the government to the rights of the citizens. The original Constitution had 395 articles. The Constitution of India is one of the most amended constitutions in the world. The number of articles increased to 448 after 104 amendments since the Constitution was adopted in 1950. (2)
4. The Constitution Was Not Drafted in a Day
The Indian Constitution is one of the longest in the world. The Constituent Assembly of India spent 2 years, 11 months, and 17 days to prepare the Constitution of India. (3). During this period, it held eleven sessions, covering a total of 165 days. The team consisted of 299 members, including prominent leaders such as Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, who played a key role in its drafting.
5. The First Republic Day Parade Was Not Held at India Gate
On January 26, 1950, the first-ever Republic Day parade took place at Irwin Stadium, which is now known as National Stadium, in Delhi. (4). The parade moved to Rajpath (then known as Kingsway) and India Gate in 1955, and it has since become a symbol of Republic Day celebrations.
6. The Tradition of Hosting the National Flag on Republic Day Began in 1950
Despite India’s independence in 1947, hoisting the national flag was not an official tradition until Republic Day in 1950. On Republic Day, the President of India hoists the flag at Rajpath, followed by the national anthem and a spectacular parade.
7. India’s Diversity is Reflected in the Display of the Republic Day Parade.
One of the most delightful aspects of Republic Day is the representation of India’s diversity. During the parade, states and Union Territories present vibrant tableaux that highlight their unique traditional art forms, folk dance, traditional attire, festivals, and historical significance. This vibrant display of traditions, languages, and costumes symbolizes the unity in diversity that is the hallmark of the Indian Republic.
8. A British Royal Was the Chief Guest at India’s First Republic Day
It might surprise many, but the first Republic Day parade in 1950 was attended by a British royal. Lord Louis Mountbatten, the outgoing British Viceroy of India, was the guest of honor at the ceremony. It was a symbol of a continuing relationship between India and the UK even after the independence of India.
9. The Role of Women in the Republic Day Parade
Although people often see the Republic Day parade as a male-dominated event, women also play significant roles. The first-ever all-women contingent from the Indian Armed Forces participated in the parade in 2016, reflecting the growing empowerment of women in India.
10. Little Known The ‘Beating the Retreat’ Ceremony
Republic Day wraps up with the “Beating the Retreat” ceremony on January 29. (5). This happens at “Vijay Chowk,” also known as “The Victory Square” in New Delhi. It includes a parade in which the Indian Armed Forces march to the sounds of military bands and the lowering of the national flag. The Republic Day celebration comes to a close with this ceremony.
In conclusion, India’s Republic Day is not merely a celebration of its constitution but symbolizes the nation’s rich history, diversity, and progress. The lesser-known facts about this day reveal the depth of India’s journey toward becoming a republic. These facts deepen our understanding of the nation’s democratic pride, values, and traditions. As we celebrate India’s remarkable achievements, let us honor and remember these fascinating details.
FAQ’s
1. Who is the First Woman Fighter Pilot to Take Part in the Republic Day Parade?
Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth. Bhawana Kanth made history by being the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the Republic Day Parade in 2021.
2. Who is the First Guest of First Republic Day?
The first chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebration was Sukarno, the first president of Indonesia.
3. What Are the Celebrations for Republic Day?
Republic Day is celebrated with parades, political speeches, cultural events, and ceremonies.
4. What are the ‘Tableaux’ in the Republic Day Parade?
‘Tableaux’ are large, decorated floats representing the cultural diversity, traditions, and achievements of different states and regions. They are an important part of the parade and highlight India’s rich heritage.
References
- Achit Gupta, A Mosaic: 50 Years of Republic Day Flypasts – https://iafhistory.in/2023/01/24/from-liberators-to-sukhois-50-years-of-republic-day-flypast/
- Vajiram & Ravi Institute For IAS Examination – https://vajiramandravi.com/quest-upsc-notes/important-articles-of-indian-constitution/
- Rajya Sabha Council of States – https://sansad.in/rs/about/constituent-assembly
- Written by Arjun Sengupta, The Inian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-history/january-26-1950-when-india-became-republic-9127785/#
- Girija Sankar Das. Interesting Things About Indian Republic Day – https://magazines.odisha.gov.in/Orissareview/2017/Jan/engpdf/43-44.pdf
