New Delhi: India gained independence in 1947, after nearly 200 years of colonial rule, and went on to become a sovereign democratic republic on January 26, 1950. Today, the 77th Republic Day is celebrated with grandeur, including the President presiding over the parade at Rajpath and millions watching live across the nation. The celebrations honour India’s journey toward self-rule, the Constitution, and democratic values, reminding citizens of the courage, vision, and commitment that shaped the nation.
History and Civics lessons teach us about India’s freedom struggle and the making of the Constitution, yet many details fade with time. Revisiting these stories helps citizens understand the roots of our democracy and the significance of Republic Day. To spark curiosity and pride, here is a list of interesting Indian Republic Day facts.
Interesting facts that define Indian Republic Day
1. January 26 and Purna Swaraj
January 26 was first observed as Purna Swaraj Day in 1930, when India formally declared its demand for complete freedom from British rule.
2. First Republic Day celebration
India celebrated its first Republic Day on January 26, 1950, almost three years after gaining Independence.
3. Drafting timeline
The Constitution of India took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to complete.
4. Role of Dr BR Ambedkar
The Drafting Committee responsible for the Constitution was led by Dr B R Ambedkar.
5. Handwritten Constitution
The Constitution exists in handwritten form in both English and Hindi.
6. Longest written Constitution
India’s Constitution is the longest in the world, with 444 articles, 22 parts, and 12 schedules, along with 118 amendments.
7. Constituent Assembly signatures
A total of 308 Constituent Assembly members signed the Constitution on January 24, 1950.
8. No printed originals
The original Constitution does not exist in printed form and remains fully calligraphed.
9. Secure preservation
The original copies are stored in helium-filled cases at the Parliament House library.
10. Three-day celebrations
Republic Day celebrations extend over three days and conclude with the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29.
11. Gandhi’s favourite hymn
The Christian hymn Abide With Me is played during the Republic Day parade, a song Mahatma Gandhi admired.
12. First Republic Day guest
Indonesia’s President Sukarno was the first chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations.
13. Early celebration venues
Between 1950 and 1954, Republic Day events were held at Irwin Stadium, Red Fort, Ramlila Grounds, and Kingsway.
14. Rajpath becomes permanent venue
Republic Day celebrations moved permanently to Rajpath in 1955.
15. First Rajpath chief guest
Malik Ghulam Mohammed, Pakistan’s first Governor-General, was the first chief guest at Rajpath.
16. Adoption of national anthem
‘Jana Gana Mana’ was adopted as India’s national anthem on January 24, 1950.
17. Origin of the anthem
Rabindranath Tagore wrote the anthem in Bengali, which was later translated into Hindi.
18. First President sworn in
Dr Rajendra Prasad took oath as India’s first President on January 26, 1950, at 10:24 am.
19. French influence on ideals
The ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity were inspired by the French Constitution.
20. Planning framework source
India’s five-year plans were influenced by the USSR Constitution.
21. First Republic Day salute
The President was honoured with a 31-gun salute during the first Republic Day.
22. Order of ceremonies
Republic Day begins with the unfurling of the national flag, followed by the parade and a 21-gun salute.
23. Presidential address
The President addresses the nation on the eve of Republic Day.
24. National awards announcement
Awards such as the Bharat Ratna, Padma Awards, and Kirti Chakra are announced on Republic Day eve.
25. Indian Air Force milestone
The Indian Air Force became an independent body on Republic Day, ending British control.
Indian Republic Day is more than an annual celebration. These facts reflect the careful thought, discipline, and vision that shaped India’s democratic foundation.