Essay on Republic Day

Republic Day is one of the three national festivals of India. It is celebrated on 26 January because on this day in 1950 the Constitution of India came into force and India became a sovereign, democratic republic. The Constitution is the highest law of the land. It was prepared by the Constituent Assembly, and Dr B. R. Ambedkar was the chairman of its Drafting Committee. Every year a grand parade is held in New Delhi. The President unfurls the national flag and takes the salute. The army, navy and air force march past, and colourful tableaux show the culture of different states. Schools also celebrate the day with flag unfurling and programmes. Republic Day reminds us of our rights and our duties as citizens.

India celebrates Republic Day on 26 January every year. Independence Day marks the day India became free; Republic Day marks the day India began to govern itself by its own Constitution. On 26 January 1950, the Constitution of India came into force, and India became a republic: a country where the head of the state is chosen by the people and not born to the post.

After independence in 1947, India needed its own set of basic laws. The Constituent Assembly, with Dr Rajendra Prasad as its President, worked for nearly three years to write them. Dr B. R. Ambedkar headed the Drafting Committee and is remembered as the chief architect of the Constitution. The Assembly adopted the Constitution on 26 November 1949, and it came into force on 26 January 1950. The date was chosen to honour 26 January 1930, when the call for Purna Swaraj, or complete independence, had been given.

The main celebration takes place in New Delhi. The President of India unfurls the national flag, and the national anthem is played. Then begins the grand parade on Kartavya Path. Regiments of the army, navy and air force march in perfect step. Tanks, missiles and aircraft show the strength of the country. Tableaux from the states present their dances, crafts and history. School children perform, and bravery awards are given. A guest from another country is usually invited as the chief guest.

In my school, we gather on the ground in the morning. The principal unfurls the flag, we sing the national anthem and take a pledge to serve the country. There are speeches, patriotic songs and a march past by the students.

The Constitution gives every Indian equal rights: the right to equality, to freedom, to education and to follow any religion. It also gives us duties, such as respecting the national flag, protecting public property and living in harmony. Republic Day is the right day to remember both. Rights without duties cannot keep a republic strong.