26^th January is a historical day of National significance for our country, India. This is so because India got the privilege to become a sovereign republic nation on the 26^th January, 1950.  On this day 64 years ago, India’s Constitution officially came into existence and was officially declared as a ‘Republic’. Since then, this day has been declared as a National holiday.  This year, the citizens of the country will be proudly celebrating the 65^th Republic Day across the country.

For every Indian, Republic Day is a moment to cherish and celebrate the spirit of being a citizen of a sovereign republic country and remember the sacrifice made by the freedom fighters for their country and the countrymen.

Traditional Celebrations

Every year, the Republic Day celebrations are held at Rajpath in New Delhi with the parade as the highlighting feature. At the State level, military parades are organised across various states. The day begins with the Indian Prime Minister paying homage to the martyrs at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate, New Delhi.  Following this, the ‘Flag Hoisting Ceremony’ takes place wherein the President of India along with the Chief Guest of the day, takes salute from the military.

Besides this, exceptionally courageous people who belong to the armed forces are honoured with gallantry awards which are given away by the President. Moreover, certain civilians are also presented with awards for their acts of courage in various circumstances. After this, a grand parade is held at the Rajpath, along the Vijaypath with great pomp and show. The parade begins with different regiments of the Army, the Air Force and the Navy all dressed up in their official uniforms walk past the President and offer a grand salute. This is followed by vibrant tableaus of various States and Union Territories, showcasing numerous cultures, thus highlighting that India is blessed with multiple cultures. School children in picturesque costumes also participate and perform folk dances of different states. The parade that ends at the Red Fort is concluded by the breathtaking stunts and acts performed by dare devil motor cycle riders and jet fighter planes. Finally, the Republic Day celebrations end with the singing of the National Anthem by the public, instilling and reviving in them the love for the motherland.

Tips to celebrate Republic Day

Since this day is just round the corner, we are giving you certain tips on how to celebrate this day not merely as a national holiday but to celebrate it in a child-friendly manner with your children.

• Tell your child the importance of India’s Republic Day and let them get well-versed with country’s rich history.
• Motivate your child to decorate the house with tri-coloured ribbons and balloons.
• To get the real feel of patriotism, wear tri-coloured scarfs/dupattas, bangles, t-shirts, sweatbands etc.
• Teach your children patriotic songs such as ‘Saare Jahan Se Acha’, ‘Vande Mataram’, “Ae Mere Pyaare Vatan’, ‘Mere Desh ki Dharti’ etc. and explain the meaning of the lyrics to them.
• Make arrangements for a big screen and watch the Republic Day parade together in the society’s complex.
• Also, plan a ‘Flag Hoisting’ ceremony in your society and sing along the National Anthem.
• Encourage your children and neighbourhood children to perform a patriotic performance and present after the Flag Hoisting ceremony.
• Small children can be engaged in making paper flags, tri-coloured caps etc.
• Together with your children, visit a State Museum or a National monument to give your children and insight into the rich cultural heritage and history of India.

So, make use of the aforesaid tips and celebrate this festival of National importance together with your family and friends.

Happy Republic Day.. Jai Hind!!

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