Context: Republic Day marks the adoption of India’s constitution and the country’s transition to a republic on January 26, 1950.
Though India became a free nation on August 15, 1947, it declared itself a Sovereign, Democratic, and Republic state by adopting the Constitution on this day.
Every year, the celebrations marking the day feature spectacular military and cultural pageantry.
Parades are held along the Kartavya Path, showcasing India’s unity in diversity and rich cultural heritage through beautiful tableaux presented by different Indian states.
The Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with MyGov, called on citizens to participate in various contests on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day, contributing to strengthening India’s Republic and democratic values.
For the first time, a Tri-services tableau was displayed with the theme ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’ (strong and secure India).
This year marked the historic debut of an Indonesian contingent in the parade, featuring a 352-member marching and band ensemble.
Chief Guest: Indonesian President Subianto
History of Republic Day
The Indian Independence Act of 1947, enacted by the UK Parliament, partitioned British India into two new independent dominions within the British Commonwealth.
India initially became a constitutional monarchy with George VI as the head of state and Lord Mountbatten as the governor-general.
Without a standalone constitution, India’s laws were based on the Government of India Act 1935 and governed by the Constituent Assembly.
On August 29, 1947, a seven-member drafting committee was appointed to draft a permanent constitution, with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as its chairman.
A draft of the constitution was submitted to the Constituent Assembly on November 4, 1948, and after discussions and debates, the constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949.
The major part of the constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, with Dr. Rajendra Prasad becoming the first President of India. The Constituent Assembly transitioned into the Parliament of India under the new constitution.
This significant milestone replaced the Government of India Act of 1935 and laid the foundation for a sovereign republic nation along with building a democratic nation.
The date of January 26 was chosen as it marked the day in 1930 when the Indian National Congress had proclaimed Purna Swaraj (complete independence).
The Republic Day Tableaux
According to a Ministry of Defence (MoD) circular, each year, a chosen group of “State Governments, Union Territory Administrations, Central Ministries, and Departments” contribute tableaux to the Republic Day parade.
According to the MoD document, selection is based on factors such as visual appeal, theme, detailing, music, and use of local artists.
Each year, the MoD sets an overarching theme for participants to showcase relevant elements.
Tableaux theme 2025 -“स्वर्णिम भारत – विरासत और विकास” (Golden India – Heritage and Development).
Participating Tableaux 2025 of States/UTs:
S No
States/UTs
Theme
1
Goa
Cultural Heritage of Goa
2
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand: Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports
3
Haryana
Showcasing Bhagwad Gita
4
Jharkhand
Swarnim Jharkhand: A Legacy of Heritage and Progress
Madhya Pradesh’s Glory: Kuno National Park- The land of Cheetahs
11
Tripura
Eternal Reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja
12
Karnataka
Lakkundi: Cradle of Stone Craft
13
West Bengal
The ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ & ‘Lok Prasar Prakalpa’ – Empowering Lives and Fostering Self-Reliance in Bengal
14
Chandigarh
Chandigarh: A Harmonious Blend of Heritage, Innovation and Sustainability
15
Delhi
Quality Education
16
Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
Daman Aviary Bird Park along with Kukri Memorial- A tribute to the valiant sailors of the Indian Navy
Note-:Unfurling vs. Hoisting the National Flag:Republic Day (January 26): The President of India unfurls the flag. The flag is folded or rolled up, attached to the top of the pole, and then unveiled by the President without raising it.Independence Day (August 15): The Prime Minister hoists the flag. The flag is positioned at the bottom of the pole and raised from the bottom to the top by the Prime Minister. Symbolism:Unfurling on Republic Day symbolizes India’s shift from a British colony to a sovereign, democratic republic and renews commitment to the Constitution.Hoisting on Independence Day represents the rise of a new nation, freedom from colonial rule, and patriotism. The flag is raised with a military or civilian honor guard while the national anthem is played.
