A Nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people – Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
The Republic Day of India, celebrated on 26th January, marks the day in 1950 when our Constitution came into effect, giving India the true power to govern itself. After gaining freedom from British rule in 1947, the nation needed a strong framework to guide its future and that vision took shape in the form of our constitution, drafted with wisdom, justice, and equality at its core.
While grand parades and patriotic songs dominate the celebrations, there are also many lesser known facts about Republic Day that make this occasion even more fascinating such as the fact that Dr. Rajendra Prasad became first President of India on this very day, 1930 was declaration of Purna Swaraj, and that the original Constitution was handwritten in beautiful calligraphy rather than printed.
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Top 10 Unknown facts about Indian Republic Day
“Freedom is not given, it is taken.” — Subhas Chandra Bose
The Republic Day of India, 26 Jan is not just a national celebration but also the birth to the largest democracy of the world. This special countdown to the top 10 unknown facts about Indian Republic Day brings truly fascinating layer of the stories that are rarely make it into textbooks yet an important part of our history.
1. Handwritten Constitution
The Constitution of India was handwritten not printed. It was calligraphed in Hindi and English by Vasant Krishan Vaidya and Prem Behari Narain Raizada respectively. It the lengthiest written constitution in the world, consisting 444 articles divided into 22 parts and 12 schedules.
2. First Parade Venue
The first ever Republic Day Parade was held in Irwin Stadium, Delhi in the year 1950, later on parade moves along Kartavya Path, formerly known as Rajpath, from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate.
3. Royal Buggy and Horses
The President of India arrives in a traditional horse drawn buggy escorted by bodyguards. The lead ceremonial horse is named Glorious continuing this heritage after Virat took retirement in 2022.
4. Chief Guests Past and Present
- The first Chief Guest in 1950 was President Sukarno of Indonesia.
- The Chief Guest in 2025 was President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia.
- The Chief Guests for 2026 are the European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa, marking a historic diplomatic milestone.
5. Beating Retreat on 29 January
The celebrations end with the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29, where military bands perform at Vijay Chowk, bringing a graceful close to Republic Day of India 26 Jan festivities.
6. Two Important Dates
The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 but was implemented on 26 January 1950, the date chosen to honor declaration of complete independence on India.
7. 21 Rounds of Fire
A 21-round gun salute using vintage ceremonial cannons is fired when the President unfurls the flag. It is the highest military honor, symbolizing India’s sovereignty.
8. Musical Change
The hymn Abide with Me has been replaced by the patriotic song “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon“, adding deep national emotion to the ceremony.
9. Presidents of India
- The first President of free India was Dr Rajendra Prasad.
- The current President is Droupadi Murmu, who takes the salute on Republic Day.
10. Pre-Dawn Preparations
Very few know that Republic Day activities start around 2 AM, when security, rehearsals and final checks begin long before sunrise while parade starts at 10 AM.
Theme of Republic Day of India 2026
The main theme for the 77th Republic Day of India 2026 is:
- “Vande Mataram” celebrating 150th anniversary of the national song
- “Atmanirbhar Bharat” focusing on economic Independence and innovation, with associated festivals and cultural experiences reflecting patriotic ideals.
Conclusion: A Promise to the Nation
The Republic Day of India, 26 Jan, stands as a living promise of freedom, justice, and equality made to every citizen. It reminds us that the strength of our democracy lies not only in our constitution but in the people who uphold its values. The many lesser known facts about Republic Day reveal the depth of thought, tradition, and sacrifice behind this historic day.
On this occasion, let us exchange happy Republic Day wishes and renew our dedication to unity, integrity, and national development. May every Republic Day strengthen our bond with the country and inspire us to contribute to a brighter and more prosperous India.
“However good a constitution may be, it is sure to turn out bad because those who are called to work it happen to be a bad lot.” – Dr. B. R. Ambedkar