India Republic Day

India Republic Day History

India Republic Day celebrates the inception of India as a sovereign and democratic republic. It marks the day when the Indian Constitution came into effect, replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of the nation. This observance is a symbol of India's enduring commitment to democracy, unity, and progress. An array of activities, such as parades, cultural programs, and patriotic songs, are held throughout the country to honour the occasion.

The origins of India Republic Day can be traced back to the Indian independence from British colonial rule in 1947. Following the attainment of independence, a constituent assembly was formed to draft the Indian Constitution. On November 26th, 1949, the constitution was adopted, and it came into effect on January 26th, 1950, establishing India as a republic. British citizens of Indian origin celebrate this day to honour their heritage, while others learn about India's resilient journey towards self-governance and the longstanding connections between the countries.

India Republic Day is observed through community-led events and cultural programs. These gatherings often include traditional Indian dance and music performances, food festivals, and flag hoisting ceremonies. In some cases, local government officials and dignitaries may also attend these events as a testament to the warm bilateral relationship between the United Kingdom and India. The official date of India Republic Day is January 26th.

India Republic Day Facts

• Indian is one of the world's oldest civilizations. The name India comes from the Indus Valley civilisation which lasted from 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE.
• India's national flag is a horizontal tricolour with light orange at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom. The light orange represents the strength and courage of the country. The white represents peace and truth. The green represents the fertility and growth of the land. The flag also has a 24-spoke-wheel called Ashoka Chakra in the centre. It was designed by Pingali Venkayya and adopted on 22 July 1947.
• India's national bird is the Peacock. Its national fruit is the mango.
• The IPC was drafted in 1860 during British rule in India and is still in force today. It has served as the basis for criminal law in India and shares similarities with the British criminal law system.
• Approximately 60% of the content of the Indian constitution is borrowed, modified, and adapted from the 1935 Act.

In the News and Trending in the UK for India Republic Day

India Republic Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Attend or watch the celebratory parade in New Delhi. India's military forces all participate in a demonstrative display of India's strength. The national anthem is recited and shows and events are held through the day.
• Enjoy Indian dishes and cuisines. Some popular items include Murgh Makhani (butter chicken), Rogan Josh (red lamb), and Malai kofta (vegetable meatballs).
• Watch India's 2023 Republic Day parade if you missed it.
• Prepare and indulge in popular Indian dishes or arrange a home-cooked Indian feast with family or close friends. You could try making traditional Indian snacks, sweets, or even a full meal.