One of the powerful and enduring quotes from the Preamble of the Constitution of India is:
“We, the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a sovereign socialist secular democratic republic and to secure to all its citizens: Justice, social, economic and political; Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship; Equality of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all, Fraternity, assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation.”
This excerpt encapsulates the fundamental ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that form the cornerstone of the Indian Constitution, marking the country’s transition to a sovereign democratic republic.
Although India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, it took almost three years to finalize the Constitution, leading to the delay in celebrating Republic Day on January 26, 1950.
They took about three years to draft the Constitution of India due to several reasons including the complexity and details required for a nation with a diverse population as was India. Through rigorous debate, best practices from across the world were adopted to suit the Indian landscape. They considered inputs from different ideologies, regional representations, legal experts, and leaders from various communities.
The Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly of India, responsible for formulating the final draft of the Constitution, was composed of seven members. The committee was chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar including notable figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Rajendra Prasad, Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer, K.M. Munshi, and Sarojini Naidu and others representing diverse ideologies, regions, and communities across India.
The original handwritten copies of the Indian Constitution are preserved in helium-filled cases in the Library of the Parliament House. It’s one of the longest written constitution in the world.
The first Republic Day was celebrated in 1950 with great enthusiasm at Rajpath, New Delhi, in the presence of President Rajendra Prasad.
The celebrations include:
- Each year, India invites a foreign head of state as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. This tradition began in 1950 and is a symbol of India’s diplomatic relations with various countries.
- The Republic Day parade showcases not only the military prowess but also includes various civilian groups, such as school children, folk dancers, and cultural troupes from different states, promoting India’s rich diversity.
- Republic Day is a significant occasion to honour civilians and armed forces personnel with prestigious awards like the Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Bharat Ratna for their exceptional contributions to the nation.
- The Republic Day celebrations culminate on January 29 with the Beating Retreat Ceremony at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi. It marks the official end of the Republic Day festivities with military bands and a mesmerizing display of music and marching.
And finally a reminder of what our national flag symbolises – The Tiranga, used during Republic Day, consists of saffron representing courage and sacrifice, white symbolizing truth and purity, and green representing faith and fertility. The navy blue wheel in the center signifies the Dharma Chakra or the wheel of law.
These facts add depth and richness to the celebration of the 75th Indian Republic Day, showcasing the historical, cultural, and symbolic aspects that make this day a momentous occasion for the nation.
Happy Republic Day!
Louella Santimano Dias