Republic Day 2022: What is the date of India's Republic Day?

Every year on January 26th, India celebrates its Republic Day.

What is the significance of India's Republic Day?

Republic Day is one of India's three national holidays, commemorating the enactment of the Indian constitution on January 26, 1950. Although India gained independence from Britain on August 15, 1947 (which is commemorated as a different national holiday), the country was essentially controlled under the colonial Government of India Act of 1935 for the first three years.

A constituent assembly, elected by provincial assemblies shortly after independence was declared, set about creating a constitution to govern the newly independent country. After more than two years of work, India's constitution was finally finished, solidifying the country's autonomous democratic governance.

The official enactment date of January 26 was chosen as a nod to the Indian National Congress's Purna Swaraj (full self-rule) proclamation of independence in 1930, which was considered the first concrete step toward independence from Britain.

According to the preamble of the 1950 constitution, the country was renamed the Republic of India, a "sovereign socialist secular democratic republic" that "secures all its citizens justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity."

Also Read: Republic Day 2022: Parade Time, Tables and Army Contingents

How is Republic Day celebrated in India?

The holiday's primary event is a large parade in New Delhi, the capital, which features cultural, historical, and military demonstrations. The prime minister will lay a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, an arched war memorial, and observe a moment of silence to remember fallen troops, which will precede the parade.

As most companies, schools, and government offices are closed, smaller parades, cultural activities, public celebrations, and private parties take place across the country. The Beating Retreat Ceremony in New Delhi, where bands from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force perform, brings the celebrations to a close on January 29.