Every year on January 26, India celebrates Republic Day with great enthusiasm. This day is important because, on January 26, 1950, the Indian Constitution came into effect. It was a big step in India’s history, turning the country into a fully independent and democratic republic. Before this, India didn’t have its own set of rules to govern, but adopting the Constitution marked the beginning of self-rule and democracy.
Republic Day is an important event because it upholds the principles of equality, fairness, and the rule of law, which are the foundation of India’s democracy.
While the entire country celebrates the occasion with great enthusiasm, the main event is held in New Delhi. Here, the President takes the lead in a grand parade that highlights India’s dedication to democracy, its rich cultural heritage, and the strength of its armed forces. This event is a proud display of the nation’s unity and diversity for everyone to see.
Republic Day 2025: Theme
This year, Republic Day 2025 revolves around the theme “Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas,” which translates to “Golden India – Heritage and Development.” The theme beautifully captures India’s journey of progress while honoring its rich cultural traditions and history. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s achievements and the need to preserve its heritage even as it moves forward.
The theme focuses on two key ideas:
1. Virasat (Heritage): This represents India’s deep cultural roots, traditions, and history. It highlights the importance of cherishing the values, art, and achievements passed down by our ancestors, which give India its unique identity.
2. Vikas (Development): This signifies India’s progress and growth in areas like technology, education, infrastructure, and the economy. It reflects the vision of building a modern, developed, and stronger nation.
Together, the theme reminds us that while India continues to grow and evolve, it must stay connected to its roots and cultural identity. In simple terms, it means, “As we strive for progress, we should never forget where we came from.”
Who Are the Chief Guests and What’s New for This Year’s Republic Day?
The Indonesian President, Prabowo Subianto, will be the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2025. His visit is especially significant as it marks 75 years of strong diplomatic ties between India and Indonesia. This highlights the close friendship and cooperation shared by the two nations over the years.
According to a recent government announcement, 100 women artists will play Indian musical instruments to kick off the march at Kartavya Path for the first time. Additionally, an all-women Tri-Service contingent will also march down Kartavya Path during the parade for the first time.
Carefully selecting Republic Day guests
Choosing a chief guest for Republic Day is a carefully planned process that begins six months ahead of the event.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) takes care of this responsibility, keeping in mind the relationship between India and the guest’s country. In simple terms, they look at how strong or friendly the connection is between the two nations before making decisions or taking action.
Before an invitation is sent, aspects such as economic connections, military collaboration, political relations, and trade opportunities are thoroughly evaluated. This helps ensure that the invitation aligns with the mutual interests of both countries.
Another aspect that was taken into account in the past was whether the chief guest’s country was a member of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was an international political group formed in 1961 by countries that had recently gained independence. It was created to give these nations a platform to work together without aligning with major global powers.
The goal of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was to help countries support each other in building their nations while staying away from the rivalries and conflicts of the Cold War era.
This was seen in 1950 when Sukarno, the president of Indonesia and one of the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), was invited to be the first chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations.
After selecting a suitable candidate, their name is sent to the Prime Minister and the President of India for approval.
Next, the availability of the chosen Chief Guest is confirmed. Once they agree, India starts formal communication with their country.
The final decision to invite the selected guest as the chief guest is made, and it is considered a great honor.
French President Emmanuel Macron was chosen as the chief guest for 2024 because of the strong relationship between India and France and his close connection with Prime Minister Narendra Modi since 2018.
History of Republic Day
Although India became independent on August 15, 1947, it did not have its own constitution until January 26, 1950.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar headed the Constituent Assembly, which drafted the Constitution to replace the Government of India Act.
The committee submitted the final draft of the Constitution to the Constituent Assembly on November 4, 1948.
A few months later, on January 26, 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who was India’s first President (serving from 1950 to 1962), hoisted the Indian National Flag, accompanied by a 21-gun salute. This marked the day India officially became a republic, and January 26 was declared as Republic Day to celebrate this historic event.
Why is Republic Day Important?
Republic Day holds several important meanings. It highlights India’s commitment to the values of the Constitution, such as equality, justice, freedom, and unity, which reflect the country’s dedication to democracy.
It also celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage. The Republic Day festivities showcase the country’s diverse cultures through various cultural programs and colorful displays.
Another key purpose of Republic Day is to promote national unity. The celebrations highlight India’s strength in its diversity (meaning the many different cultures, languages, religions, and traditions across the country) and encourage a sense of togetherness among people from all backgrounds.
Republic Day also honors and expresses gratitude to the brave leaders and freedom fighters who fought for India’s independence and helped shape it into a republic (meaning a nation governed by its own Constitution, where leaders are elected by the people).
(The author of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: [email protected])
Link to article –
Republic Day 2025: Theme, chief guest of this year, history; all you need to know about January 26
