The Indian constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, celebrated thereafter as Republic Day. The date was chosen as it on this day in 1930 declaration of independence or ‘Purna Swaraj’ was made at the Lahore Congress. The site is commemorated by the ‘Minar e Pakistan’ in Lahore.
India’s venture on the path of democracy was lauded by none other than then British PM Sir Antony Eden. On this day the Prime Minister lays a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, at the India Gate, in the memory of unknown soldiers. Then the President arrives along with the chief guest of the occasion. The National flag is unfurled; the National Anthem is played along with a 21-gun salute. Awards for valour, like the Ashok Chakra etc. are given away by the President and the regiments of Armed Forces start their march past. IAF does a fly-past and cultural glimpses from various parts of the country are showcased. Young brave hearts follow in regal procession.
Celebrations in states are presided over by Governors. This is one of India’s three national holidays. On this day India realized the dream of all those freedom fighters who, fought for and sacrificed their lives for freedom.
Personally January 26 in the school days meant getting up early and cycling to school, dressed in pristine whites and snug in the knowledge that there would be no classes. I was too young to understand implications of weighty terms like freedom and independence but there was a sense of pride when the tricolor fluttered in the chilly January breeze. On the way back home we would be doubly happy with a goody bag, from the school adding to it. Pedaled a bit harder, no point in missing the cricket match.
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