Today and every year on January 26th, India celebrates its Republic Day. It is a national holiday that commemorates the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. But there’s more to it than just that! Here are some fun facts about Republic Day in India that you may not know.

1. It’s origins are historic

The celebration of Republic Day started in 1949 and since then the parade has been held annually on Rajpath, New Delhi. It is one of three national holidays celebrated in India and is a time for citizens to express their patriotism for the country and its rich culture.

2. Celebrations include a number of events

The main event takes place at Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) where the President of India hoists the National Flag and delivers an address to the nation. This is followed by a spectacular parade along Rajpath featuring marching soldiers and floats from each state showcasing their culture. The Prime Minister also attends this event every year, along with other dignitaries from across India and abroad. At night, a cultural program is held at Red Fort in Delhi which ends with fireworks display over the city skyline!

3. Special guests are invited

Every year, there is also a special guest invited to attend the Republic Day Parade as Chief Guest – usually a head of state or government from another country who is invited as a sign of respect and friendship between two nations. In recent years, US President Barack Obama (in 2015) was the first American leader to be invited as chief guest at this prestigious event! This year, the special guest is Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi

4. Celebrations include a Beating Retreat

One of the most popular traditions during Republic Day celebrations is “Beating Retreat” ceremony which happens every year on January 29th at Vijay Chowk (Victory Square). During this ceremony, military bands from Indian Army, Navy & Air Force play patriotic songs while marching past Raisina Hill towards Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House). This marks an official end to all Republic Day celebrations across India!

5. It’s a day for awards

A variety of awards are given out during Republic Day celebrations including Ashok Chakra Award which is given posthumously by President to recognize acts of valor shown by our armed forces personnel; Paramveer Chakra Award which recognizes highest degree bravery during war time; Maha Vir Chakra Award for gallantry beyond call of duty; Kirti Chakra Award for acts of conspicuous gallantry; Shaurya Chakra Award for gallantry during peacetime operations plus many others.

6. It’s a time to celebrate democracy

One unique thing about Indian constitution is that it does not have any fixed age limit for becoming Prime Minister unlike other countries – anyone above 25 years old can become Prime Minister if elected by people! This makes Republic Day an even more special occasion for Indians as it commemorates not only adoption but also implementation of a constitution that gives Indians rights and freedoms as citizens living in world’s largest democracy.

Republic Day holds great significance for Indians all around world who come together every year on this day to remember importance of having strong democratic values enshrined in their constitution and celebrate diversity within their nation through various cultural performances and events. So make sure you mark your calendar next year too so you don’t miss out on these amazing festivities! Happy Republic Day everyone!

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