India celebrates its 73rd Republic Day today.
The special day marks the historic event in January 26, 1950 when the Indian Constitution came into effect, making the country a sovereign state and declaring it a republic.
The first session of the Constituent Assembly was held on December 9, 1946 and the last assembly session ended on November 26, 1949. The Indian Constitution was adopted the following year (1950).
When it was formally adopted in 1950, the Indian Constitution replaced the British colonial Government of India Act (1935) as the country’s governing text.
The Constitution establishes fundamental rights that should be enjoyed by all citizens of India, regardless of their political beliefs.
It also establishes some fundamental duties for all citizens of the country to abide by.
Republic Day commemorates the spirit of independent and individual India and Indian citizens’ power to choose their government democratically.
It is celebrated with much pomp and show across the country, with the highlight being the annual parade which begins at Rajpath in New Delhi and ends at India Gate.
All government institutions, schools and colleges host the country’s tricoloured national flag which are then followed by a colourful array of social and cultural events.
During the celebrations, the country’s President raises the flag and special parades and air shows are conducted by the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
The event also honours the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the country with the Prime Minister of India placing a ringlet at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate.
Additionally, India’s President distributes Padma Awards to deserving civilians to honour their contribution to the nation and brave soldiers are awarded the Paramvir Chakra, Ashok Chakra and Vir Chakra.
The parade comes to an end when the Indian Air Force fighter jets fly past Janpath.
The popular Republic Day Parade is seen live by millions of people over the Internet or TV.
Celebrations are held on a smaller scale in all state capitals, where the governor of the state unfurls the flag and the same celebrations are also held at district headquarters, subdivisions, talukas and panchayats.
The festivities officially come to a close on January 29 with the Beating Retreat Ceremony in New Delhi, where bands from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force perform.
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