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Republic day, called in Hindi as Ganatantra Divas, is celebrated to commemorate the date on which the constitution of India came into power after replacing the Government of India Act 1935. This special day 26 th Jan was dedicated for paying honor to the significant event- The Declaration of Independence in 1930.
It is one of the three national holidays and this day is celebrated at Rajpath, in the national capital of New Delhi where the president graces the occasion and has to be present till the end. The history behind this day of national importance is that the Drafting Committee prepared a permanent constitution which was headed by Dr. BR Ambedkar.
After several sessions that were open to public went on for 166 days, it was followed by alterations in the constitution draft and 308 members of the Assembly signed this two paged document on 24 Jan 1950. After 2 days i.e. 26 Jan 1950 the Constitution of India became the supreme law for all Indian lands.
To mark this special day with respect, a grand parade is conducted in New Delhi, which starts from the Raisina Hill (near the rashtrapati bhavan), stretches to Rajpath, covering India Gate and leads towards the Red Fort. The parade is started by the Prime Minister placing a flower wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti in India Gate, which is a symbol of paying respect, tribute to unknown soldiers who have served the country.
After observing a 2 minute silence for these soldiers, the Prime Minister proceeds to the main dais at Rajpath where he is joined by several dignitaries. Finally the president arrives with the chief guest of the occasion and he starts the ceremony by unfurling the tri-colour Indian Flag with the National Anthem being played and a 21 gun salute is done. Prestigious awards like Ashok Chakra and Kirti Chakra are awarded by the president.
Following this, a fine view sets into the scenario as the Army, Navy and Air Force march in sync, while looking their best with immaculate uniforms and official decorations. Then, tableaus which represent the Indian states decorated with balloons, flowers, decorations & symbolize the strengths of that particular region are exhibited as a part of this glorious parade. This parade is ended with a flypast performed by Indian AirForce Jets and this sight is a treat to the eyes.
Republic Day 2011 will be celebrated with equal gaiety and happiness. The security has been strengthened in New Delhi. As the capital gears up with preparations, the day is approaching nearer. The Chief Guest that will grace the occasion this time will be President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono from Indonesia.