Republic Day 2025: Differentiating 'Unfurling' the National Flag on Republic Day from 'Hoisting' It on Independence Day

Republic Day 2025: Differentiating 'Unfurling' the National Flag on Republic Day from 'Hoisting' It on Independence Day

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Republic Day 2025: Republic Day is a significant occasion for Indians, commemorating the enactment of the Indian Constitution in 1950. This year, on Sunday, January 26, India will celebrate its 76th Republic Day. This momentous event represents India's evolution into a republic characterized by a democratically elected government and a written Constitution that embodies the principles of democracy, secularism, and unity.

The celebrations of Republic Day feature elaborate parades, colourful state tableaux, and cultural performances. It is noteworthy that on this day, the Indian flag is "unfurled" rather than "hoisted." Although the phrases "flag hoisting" and "flag unfurling" are frequently used interchangeably, they denote distinct methods of displaying the national flag. Let us examine the essential differences in the presentation of the flag on Republic Day compared to Independence Day in India.

Difference between hosting and unfurling the flag

Raising a flag entails elevating it from the bottom of the pole to its apex, enabling it to flutter in the breeze. Conversely, unfurling refers to the process of spreading out a flag that is already secured to a rope at the top of the pole. The primary distinction between the two actions is the initial position of the flag during the ceremonies—hoisting commences with the flag positioned at the base, whereas unfurling initiates with the flag already in position, prepared for display.

Why the flag is unfurled on Republic Day

On Republic Day 2024, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, unfurled the national flag, followed by the rendition of the national anthem and a 21-gun salute.

On January 26, as part of the Republic Day festivities, the President of India raises the national flag at Kartavya Path, previously known as Rajpath. This ceremonial act of raising the flag is particularly meaningful, as India had achieved independence by 1950, marking the end of colonial governance. Republic Day serves to honour the adoption of the Indian Constitution, which formally recognized India as a sovereign and democratic republic.

How it differs from Independence Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi while hoisting the National flag at the Red Fort on 78th Independence Day.

On Independence Day, celebrated on August 15, the Prime Minister raises the national flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi. Unlike the act of unfurling, hoisting refers to the process of elevating the flag from the base of the pole, representing India's rise as a sovereign nation following its liberation from British colonial rule in 1947. This event is complemented by a guard of honour and the performance of the national anthem, signifying the commemoration of India's independence.

Read Also: Republic Day Speech Ideas: Honoring Our National Identity

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