The Constitution of India came into force on January 26, 1950 and this special day began.
Preparations for Republic Day, celebrated every year on 26 January, are in full swing. Rehearsals for the Republic Day Parade on the duty route in New Delhi have started. The Constitution of India came into force on January 26, 1950, thus India became a republic and this special day began. This special day is not just a parade and a display of military capability.
Republic Day is also an occasion to respect constitutional values, justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. Every year before this special day the question arises that which Republic Day is India celebrating? This year there is discussion whether India is celebrating the 77th Republic Day or the 78th.
77th or 78th Republic Day?
History says that the Constitution of India was implemented on January 26, 1950. Seen this way, 76 years of Republic Day have been completed. This year the 77th Republic Day is being celebrated in the country. This confusion often spreads through social media. How confusion spreads can be understood from this year’s Republic Day.
Social media users argue that Republic Day will be celebrated according to the number of years that have been completed, but some argue that Republic Day will be celebrated according to the number of years that have been completed and then the new year will be celebrated. For example, 66 years of Republic Day have been completed and now the 77th Republic Day is being celebrated. This same logic truly applies. That’s why India is celebrating the 77th Republic Day this year.
Defense Ministry says that around 10,000 special guests have been invited to witness the 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi this year.
The guests include those who have carried out exemplary work in income and employment generation, best innovators, pic.twitter.com/nckhmtuMvA
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) January 19, 2026
Importance of Republic Day
Republic Day also symbolizes India’s constitutional journey, strengthening of democratic institutions, progress in governance, defence, technology and social development as well as commitment to unity in diversity. Parades are the main attraction of Republic Day celebrations. Parades of the armed forces and paramilitary forces, grand tableaux of states and union territories, display of indigenous defense capabilities, cultural programs celebrating India’s heritage highlight the importance of Republic Day.
Republic Day also tells about the importance of the Constitution. The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world. The Indian Constitution ensures many rights. Such as fundamental rights, equality before law, secularism, justice and freedom for all citizens. Even after 77 years, it continues to guide the political, social and economic life of India.
How many countries celebrate Republic Day?
Most people think that Republic Day is celebrated only in India, but it is not so. It is celebrated in other countries also. However, the dates and reasons for celebrating Republic Day also vary. As-Italy celebrates Republic Day every year on 2 June. On this day, after a historic referendum, Italy left the monarchy and became a republic. At the same time, in Türkiye this special day is celebrated on 29 October. On this special day, the modern Republic of Türkiye was formed in place of the Ottoman Empire. Not only this, Portugal, Nepal, Brazil, South Africa and Iran also celebrate Republic Day.
Also read: India, China and Russia, which country’s military parade is so special?