Republic Day 2025: All you need to know about Gantantra Diwas

Republic Day is one of the most important national holidays in India, celebrated every year on 26 January. It marks the day when India adopted its Constitution and officially became a republic in 1950. The 76th Republic Day on 26 January 2025 will be celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit across the nation.

Republic Day history

India gained freedom from British rule on 15 August 1947, but it was on 26 January 1950 that the Constitution of India came into force. This new Constitution replaced the Government of India Act, 1935, which was a colonial-era law, and established India as a fully independent republic.

The date 26 January was chosen to honour the Purna Swaraj declaration made in 1930 by the Indian National Congress, which called for complete independence from British rule. The Constitution, prepared under the guidance of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, was finalised on 26 November 1949 and implemented on 26 January 1950.

How Republic Day is Celebrated in India

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Republic Day is celebrated with parades, cultural performances, and patriotic events. The grandest celebration happens in New Delhi, featuring a spectacular parade at the Kartavya Path (previously Rajpath).

• Parade Highlights: The day starts with the President of India hoisting the national flag, followed by a 21-gun salute. Military forces, police, and paramilitary units take part in a march, showcasing their skills and discipline.
• Tableaux: Each state and government department presents beautifully decorated floats, called tableaux, to display their culture and achievements. The theme for the 76th Republic Day Parade 2025 is "???????? ???? - ?????? ?? ?????", which means "Golden India - Heritage and Development".
• Cultural Performances: Schoolchildren and artists perform dances, speeches, essay competitions and songs, reflecting India’s rich cultural heritage and unity.

Republic Day Chief Guest and Its Importance

Every year, India invites a foreign leader as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations. For the 76th Republic Day, Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto will attend as the chief guest. His presence will strengthen the relationship between India and Indonesia.

Beating Retreat Ceremony

The Republic Day celebrations end with the Beating Retreat ceremony on 29 January at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi. Bands from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force perform music, including patriotic and traditional tunes. The event concludes with the national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," and a spectacular retreat.

Honouring Achievements with Awards

On the eve of Republic Day, the President of India presents the prestigious Padma Awards:

• Padma Vibhushan: For exceptional and distinguished service.
• Padma Bhushan: For distinguished service of a high standard.
• Padma Shri: For outstanding service in any field.

Engaging Citizens in Celebrations

Ahead of Republic Day 2025, the Ministry of Defence and MyGov are inviting citizens to take part in contests and events. This initiative aims to encourage people to celebrate the values of democracy and strengthen the spirit of the republic.

Republic Day is a reminder of India’s journey as a democratic nation. It celebrates the country’s unity in diversity, its rich heritage, and the values enshrined in the Constitution. As the 76th Republic Day approaches, it is a time for all Indians to reflect on the sacrifices of the past and look forward to building a stronger nation.

Let us all celebrate this special day with pride and honour the legacy of our great republic.

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