On the eve of the Republic Day of India, I have great pleasure to extend my greetings and good wishes to all of you. 26th January was the day when the Indian Republic and its constitution came into force.
Although India obtained its independence on August 15th 1947, it did not have a permanent constitution; instead its laws were based on the modified colonial “Government of India Act 1935”. A drafting committee with 308 members, headed by Dr.Ambedkar was formed to draft a permanent Constitution.
To mark the importance of this occasion, every year a grand parade is held in the National as well as State capitals. The event in New Delhi begins with the Prime Minister of India laying a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, commemorating all the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country. Soon, a 21 gun salute is presented, the President unfurls the National Flag and the National Anthem is played. This marks the beginning of the parade.
The Parade begins with winners of gallantry awards passing the President in open jeeps. President of India takes the salute of the Armed Forces at the grand parade. The Indian Military – Army, Navy and Air force showcases its latest acquisitions such as tanks, missiles, radars, warships, fighter planes, etc...
Soon after, awards and medals of bravery are given by the President to the people from the armed forces for their exceptional courage and also to those civilians who have distinguished themselves by their different acts of valor in different situations. After this, helicopters and fight planes fly past the parade area showering rose petals on the audience.
The military parade is followed by a colorful cultural parade. India’s rich cultural heritage is depicted in the form of tableaus from various states. Each state depicts its unique festivals, historical locations and art. This exhibition of diversity and richness of the cultures of India lends a festive air to the occasion. School-children from all over the country also participate in the parade showcasing folk dances and singing to the tunes of patriotic songs.
At exactly 6 pm, the National Flag is lowered and the National Anthem is sung, bringing the Republic Day Celebrations to a formal end.
Celebrations, though on a relatively smaller scale, are also held in all state capitals, where the Governor of the state unfurls the Tricolor. Similar celebrations are also held at district headquarters, sub divisions, talukas and panchayats.
On this great day, let us rededicate ourselves to the noble principles of Justice, Liberty and Equality on which the Republic of India was founded.
Jai Hind.
Regards,
Tirumalanath
tirumalanath@gmail.com
Posts
