India is set to celebrate its 77th Republic Day on Monday, Jan. 26. This day marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, replacing the Government of India Act 1935. Celebrations take place across India with much pomp and show, with the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path, in New Delhi, being the main attraction.
People from across the country are expected to gather in Delhi to watch the celebrations. Ticket sales for the parade have already begun. The event showcases India's military strength and cultural diversity through tableaux, regional dance performances, drills, etc, held on the Kartavya Path.
The Republic Day celebrations last for four days and conclude with the Beating Retreat ceremony at Delhi's Vijay Chowk. Despite Delhi's chilly winter, crowds gather from around the country to watch these events.
Confusion Over 77th Or 78th Republic Day
While Republic Day is celebrated every year, many people are confused about which anniversary is being observed. Although India became independent on Aug. 15, 1947, it became a sovereign, democratic and republican state with the adoption of the Constitution in 1950. As a result, Jan. 26, 1950, was observed as India's first Republic Day.
To clarify, India will celebrate its 77th Republic Day this year. This is because 1950 marked the very first celebration. Many people get confused because they tend to count the number of years since 1950, rather than the number of Republic Day celebrations.
What To Expect From This Year's Republic Day Celebrations
Continuing the tradition, the government will host Republic Day celebrations on Jan. 26 at the Kartavya Path, New Delhi. The parade usually starts at 10:30 a.m. Two senior European Union leaders, Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, will attend this year's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests.
Tableaux from different states and union territories are expected to take part in the parade, showing their culture, heritage and achievements. During the ceremony, artists will perform dances, drills and music.
The celebrations will end on Jan. 29 with the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk. On this day, the President of India will arrive on a cavalry unit, and the event will include the national salute, the national anthem and flag unfurling. There will also be performances by Army, Navy and Air Force bands to mark the event.
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