India is celebrating its 75th Republic Day today (26 January, Friday), marking the adoption of the constitution on this day in 1950.
The theme of this year’s Republic Day is ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat: Loktantra ki Matruka’, which symbolise the country’s aspirations and its role as the nurturer of democracy.
Republic Day stands as a source of pride for Indians worldwide, symbolizing the end of the struggle for independence and the establishment of a self-governing nation. It serves as a tribute to the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution, guiding the nation forward.
On January 26, 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect, replacing the colonial-era Government of India Act of 1935.
The transition from a dominion under British rule to a sovereign, democratic republic on January 26, 1950, stands as a defining moment in India’s history.
This marked the birth of the Indian Republic, and Dr Rajendra Prasad assumed the presidency, symbolising a shift from allegiance to the British monarch to an independent Indian head of state.
The adoption of the Constitution on November 26, 1949, was a precursor to the Republic Day celebrations.
While India’s Independence Day celebrates its freedom from British Rule, the Republic Day celebrates the coming into force of its constitution.
January 26 holds a special place in India’s political calendar because, in 1929, the Congress party declared ‘Purna Swaraj,’ rejecting the dominion status proposed by the British regime.
