We all love our country as patriotism levels are soaring through the roof at least on national holidays. And while the name of the Independence Day is self-explanatory, many of India’s youth are left puzzled when asked about the significance of the Republic Day, which will be celebrated today.

So since it’s a day of huge historic value and also because you are looking forward to the long weekend that it is putting together, here are some basics about our R-Day that you should definitely know.

Why is it celebrated?

In 1950, on this day, India was declared a republic nation officially. The process had started much earlier but this is when the ‘Indian Republic’ came into existence.

What does republic mean?

India used to be divided into more than 500 princely states before independence. Once the Indian constitution was established on January 26, 1950, all of them were unified and integrated into the Republic of India.

But why Jan 26?

During the freedom struggle, January 26 was slated to be India’s Purna Swaraj (Independence) Day in 1930. But as we all know, the British left the country on August 15, 1947. So in order to commemorate Jan 26, it was selected as our Republic Day three years later.

Tell me more about the Indian constitution.

 

• The Indian constitution is the longest in the world

 

• It took Dr BR Ambedkar two years and 11 months to draft the Indian Constitution

 

• It consists of the best from other countries’ constitutions

 

• Liberty, equality and fraternity come from the French while the Five-Year Plans come from Soviets

 

What’s the carnival in Delhi about?

The Delhi Republic Day Parade is the most important show during the three-day celebrations. The parade showcases India’s defence capability, cultural diversity and social Heritage. Dignitaries from various countries are invited as chief guests on the occasion.