Five Facts About Republic Day Every Indian Should Know

2018 marks India’s 69th Republic Day. Chances are, you will spend the day watching the parade, having mithai and attending your colony’s flag hoisting ceremony. But, do you know the fascinating history behind this day?

1. A lot more than a day of celebration

January 26th, 1930 was the day that our freedom fighters decided to fight for full independence from the British. Initially, this day was celebrated as Purna Swaraj Day or India’s Independence Day.

2. Our Constitution came into effect on this day

The Indian Constitution has 448 Articles in 22 Parts, 12 Schedules and 97 Amendments. It is reportedly the longest written constitution in the world, taking 2 years, 11 months and 18 days for it to be completed. It was officially legally circulated on the 26th of January 1950 at 10.18 am after which we became a Republic country. Since then, 94 amendments have been made to the constitution.

3. Atithi Devo Bhava

In an increasingly globalised world, it helps to maintain a positive relationship with the nations of the world. Every year the President is accompanied by a foreign dignitary and this year not one but 10 leaders will be guests from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - part of the ASEAN bloc.[1] In the past, former US President Barack Obama and Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe, have been chief guests![2]

4. Our Air Force was born

It was on this day that the Indian Air Force came into existence. Before this it was known as the Royal Indian Air Force. Dropping the prefix “Royal” was symbolic of India’s independence.

5. It’s a day to acknowledge our national superheroes

To acknowledge is to inspire. Awards such as the Param Veer Chakra, Maha Veer Chakra, Veer Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Ashoka Chakra are presented to the bravest amongst us making the day extra-special. Besides, the Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan and Kirti Chakra are also awarded recognising the finest talent and starting the year off on a feel-good note.

Feeling patriotic? Get even more inspired by these young tech achievers and stories of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Jai Hind!