Republic Day- The celebrations

Republic Day is celebrated every year on the 26th of January. This day holds immense significance as the Indian Constitution came into force. It was on this day back in 1930, that Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru declared ‘Purna Swaraj’ or ‘Self-Independence’ from the British Rule, after the British Government refused to entertain the demands of the Indian freedom fighters. It was on the same day in 1965, that Hindi was adopted as one of the official languages of India.

With the date holding so much of significance, the celebrations at Rajpath witnesses jaunty celebrations of patriotism in front of the country and the whole world. The events shouldn’t be missed, considering how grand it is. Let’s look at everything you need to know about the celebrations on Republic Day.

Historical Significance of Republic Day

Republic Day is celebrated to honour the day when our Indian Constitution, the heart and soul representing the rights of the people, laws of the land, and the essence of the idea of India, was adopted. India gained independence on 15th August 1947, and the Indian Constituent Assembly gave the responsibility of drafting the constitution to a drafting committee. This drafting committee was headed by Dr. BR Ambedkar.

Each year, the parade is organized by the Ministry of Defence, which also chooses the states and union territories and their tableaus to be represented. The parade shows the cultural legacy, might of defence forces, and leaves the spectators spell bound.

The 2020 celebrations

India has successfully completed 70 years after gaining the status of Republic. So, this year will mark 71 years since our constitution came into force.

Where and how to attend the parade on Republic Day in Delhi? Where to buy tickets? How much do the tickets cost?

The excited folks can buy tickets from different official spots across Delhi. Some of the details on where to buy Delhi Republic Day Parade tickets are as follows –

1. Sena Bhawan – Gate 2
2. Jantar Mantar – Main Gate
3. Pragati Maidan – Gate 1 at Bhairon Road
4. Shastri Bhawan- near Gate 3
5. North Block Roundabout
6. Red Fort -inside August 15 Park; opposite to Jain Temple
7. Jamnagar House – opposite to India Gate

For the unreserved seats, the cost of tickets is between Rs. 20 to Rs. 50. For the tickets in the front, it may be as high as Rs. 500. So, the cost of tickets depends on the distance from where the parade is happening.

Attractions to watch on Republic Day

In order to experience the expressiveness of the Republic Day celebrations, you need to be in Delhi. The most remarkable of all the events on Republic Day is the parade. Covering a distance of over 5 km, it starts at the Raisina hills, and covers the India Gate, Rajpath, and moves on to the Red Fort. Following are some of the attractions to watch on Republic Day.

1. India Gate

The Indian flag is hoisted by the President of India at the India Gate. The moment fills the folks with patriotism. The national anthem is played in the background while the President unfurls the flag. This is followed by the iconic 21 Gun Salute. The National Salute by the President marks the beginning of the celebrations.

2. Amar Jawan Jyoti

The President of India arrives with his Bodyguards – PBG. Then the President pays tribute at Amar Jawan Jyoti, the event marking respect to the Indian Armed Forces.

3. Award Ceremonies

Each year, the officials as well as the civilians are honoured with awards for their exemplary work done towards the upliftment of the nation. Ashoka Award, Kirti Award, and the various Padma awards are given to the respected individuals.

4. Republic Day Parade

One of the main attractions of the Republic Day is the colourful parade. It begins with the march of regiments from the Indian Armed Forces. After this, the tableaus representing the various cultural and ethnic ethos of various states is a sight to behold. In addition to this, the school children are also seen performing various cultural dances while the parade continues.

5. Motorbike Stunts

The daredevil acts of the armed forces on bikes is one of the most thrilling events. While the Indian Army and Military perform these acrobatics on their bikes, the Indian Air Forces takes the acts to the next level with their helicopters with fighter jets. This event marks the end of a wonderful Republic Day celebration.

6. The Beating Retreat Ceremony

The celebrations go on for three days. The ceremony called the Beating Retreat takes place at the Vijay Chowk on 29th January. President of India is the guest of honour. The armed forces perform with their trumpets, drums and buglers. The National anthem is played on the tunes of the trumpet, with a National Salute commanded by the President to his unit – PBG.

Who will be the chief guest for the Republic Day Celebrations 2020?

President of Brazil, Mr Jair Messias Bolsonaro will be attending the 71st annual Republic Day Celebrations as the Guest of Honor.

Some tips while you attend the Republic Day Celebrations in Delhi –

1. Make sure you know the Metro Lines carefully. Get information on which Metro lines will remain closed.
2. Always keep checking your pockets. Since there are a lot of people who will be attending the ceremony, you need to make sure that your electronic devices or money is not stolen – especially on Rajiv Chowk!
3. Reach the place as early as possible as chances are, you may get late due to the stringent checking around the city on the occasion of Republic Day.
4. Use public transport, as the crowd of VIPs attending will only lead to inevitable traffic and parking problems.
5. Make sure that you don’t throw a flag on the road after the ceremony is over.

Remember, National Flags are not just symbols, but are the essence of patriotism and love for our country. Make sure you respect these sentiments.

Folks who are not in Delhi

You always have the option to watch the show on TV. Infact, most of the News channels telecast the celebrations live. Make sure you wake up early and point of the tableaus you witnessed. Do comment which tableau you liked most in the comment section.

Ideas to celebrate Republic Day this Sunday

1. Organize a community event in your colony – Make sure you encourage children to participate in the event.
2. Ask the elderly folks to hoist the flag in the complex
3. Sing the National Anthem with the poor and downtrodden too.
4. Organize cultural events along with the Republic Day Celebrations.
5. Organize some competitions for children, gift the winners some books on our Independence struggle!
6. Distribute chocolates to the children who attend.

Also Read – Must See Places In Delhi