Republic Day 2025: 10 Surprising Facts About R-Day and the Republic Day Parade

India celebrates its Republic Day every year on January 26, marking the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950 and the nation’s transition to a republic. In 2025, the country will celebrate its 76th Republic Day, which falls on a Sunday. This day is more than just a national holiday; it’s an occasion to honor India’s Constitution and the values it upholds. The Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi is a key highlight, symbolizing unity, progress, and pride. Here are 10 lesser-known facts about Republic Day and the parade:

  1. Purna Swaraj Declaration: Republic Day is celebrated on January 26 to commemorate the 1930 Purna Swaraj Declaration by the Indian National Congress, which demanded complete independence from British rule.
  2. Preparations Begin Early: The preparation for the Republic Day parade begins in July, almost a year in advance. Participants begin practicing long before the event, accumulating around 600 hours of rehearsal before the grand parade.
  3. The Chief Guest: Every year, a distinguished guest from another nation is invited as the chief guest. In 2025, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will be attending the Republic Day parade.
  4. Gun Salute Timing: The gun salute at the Republic Day parade aligns with the National Anthem. The first gunshot is fired at the beginning of the anthem, followed by another 52 seconds later. The cannons used for the salute were made in 1941 and are present at all official military events.
  5. Republic Day Theme: Each year, a specific theme is chosen for the Republic Day parade, with states and government departments aligning their tableaux accordingly. In 2025, the theme will be “Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India – Heritage and Development), highlighting India’s achievements in technology, infrastructure, and cultural heritage.
  6. The Parade Route: The parade commences from Raisina Hill near the Rashtrapati Bhavan, continues along the Kartavya Path, passes India Gate, and culminates at the historic Red Fort.
  7. Role of Dr. BR Ambedkar: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, was instrumental in drafting the document that replaced the Government of India Act of 1935, making India a republic.
  8. First Republic Day Celebration: The first Republic Day was celebrated in 1950 at Irwin Stadium (now Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium) in New Delhi, with over 100 aircraft and 3,000 military personnel taking part.
  9. National Bravery Awards: On Republic Day, children who have demonstrated exceptional courage by saving lives or standing up against injustice are honored with the National Bravery Awards.
  10. Padma Awards Ceremony: One of the highest civilian honors in India, the Padma Awards, are presented by the President of India during a grand ceremony, recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation’s growth.

This Republic Day, as India celebrates its 76th year of being a republic, it’s a great time to reflect on the nation’s progress and the values enshrined in its Constitution.

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