Republic Day celebrates the constitution coming into play, marking the final transition of India becoming a self-governed country.
Upcoming Dates For Republic Day
Republic Day is celebrated on the 26th of January each year. Here is a list of the upcoming dates:
- Thursday, January 26, 2017
- Friday, January 26, 2018
- Saturday, January 26, 2019
- Sunday, January 26, 2020
- Tuesday, January 26, 2021
- Wednesday, January 26, 2022
- Thursday, January 26, 2023
- Friday, January 26, 2024
- Sunday, January 26, 2025
Where Is Republic Day Considered a Holiday?
Republic Day is considered a holiday everywhere in India. There are no government offices open. Banks and post offices are closed as well. There are many stores that choose to close for observation and celebration, however some remain open. The stores that remain open may not be open for their regular hours. Many people prefer to have the day off work, to celebrate India's independence. Although public transportation may be available in some areas, it won't be in others. There may also be delays in larger cities caused by parades and celebrations.
Festivities & Events During Republic Day
The celebrations held are Republic Day are well-planned. Military parades are held in New Delhi, among other state capitals. These are held to honor the service-personnel, which often join in the parade. There are are dance troupes that perform during the parades. The biggest celebration is held in New Delhi, where the Prime Minister lays a wreath at the India Gate. This is to honor and remember the soldiers who gave their lives for the country. The President of India will also take part in this honor, performing the military salute during the parade. In each area, it's common that the governors perform military salutes as well. During the parade, there are helicopters that fly around throwing rose petals down. School children will sing along and dance. There is also a ceremony, giving out medals of bravery to civilians and armed forces. At the end of the parade, the Indian Air Force fly overhead, creating the Indian flag in a trail of colored smoke. It's a day of celebration for Indian culture.
A Brief History About Republic Day
Following Mahatma Gandhi's fight for freedom, India became independent on August 15, 1947. Although they were free of the United Kingdom, India did not have a permanent constitution. The first draft was put together for November 4, 1947. The final draft was signed on January 24, 1950. India's constitution came into play two days later, on January 26th. Dr. Rajendra Prasad took an oath as the first president and India has been self-governed ever since.