Republic Day 2025: India observes its Republic Day annually on January 26. In 2025, the nation will celebrate its 76th Republic Day on a Sunday. This day commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, which established India as a republic. More than just a national holiday, Republic Day is a moment of great pride as citizens unite to recognize the importance of the Constitution. Furthermore, the Republic Day parade takes place on the Kartavya Path in New Delhi.

As we prepare to honor the 76th Republic Day of India, let us explore some intriguing and lesser-known facts about this significant occasion and the annual parade.

Republic Day 2025: 10 lesser-known facts about R-Day and the parade

1. Republic Day is celebrated on January 26 to honor the Purna Swaraj Declaration made by the Indian National Congress in 1930, which called for complete independence from British rule.

2. Preparations for the Republic Day parade commence in July of the preceding year. Participants are officially notified of their involvement, and on the day of the parade, they arrive at the venue by 3 am. By this time, they will have undergone approximately 600 hours of practice.

This year, the full dress rehearsal for the Republic Day Parade occurred on Thursday, January 23.

3. Each year, a Prime Minister, President, or a foreign dignitary is invited as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day parade. This year, the Chief Guest is Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

4. The gun salute is synchronized with the National Anthem. The first shot is fired at the beginning of the anthem, followed by another shot after 52 seconds. The cannons used for this salute were manufactured in 1941 and are utilized in all formal army events.

5. Each year, a specific theme is established for Republic Day, which is embraced by various states and government agencies.

The theme for the tableaux at the Republic Day Parade 2025 has been set as 'Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas' (Golden India – Heritage and Development). This theme will highlight India's advancements across multiple sectors, including technology, infrastructure, and cultural heritage.

6. The magnificent parade commences from Raisina Hill adjacent to the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President's House), proceeding along the Kartavya Path, past India Gate, and culminating at the historic Red Fort.

7. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, was instrumental in the creation of this significant document, which superseded the Government of India Act of 1935.

8. The inaugural Republic Day celebrations were held at Irwin Stadium (currently known as Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium) in New Delhi in 1950. The event showcased the participation of over 100 aircraft and 3,000 personnel from the Indian armed forces.

9. On Republic Day, the National Bravery Awards are presented to recognize children who have demonstrated remarkable bravery in saving lives or confronting injustices.

10. The Padma Awards, one of India's highest civilian distinctions, are conferred by the President of India during a grand ceremony, acknowledging individuals who have made a significant contribution to the nation.

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