“Happy Republic Day” is spoken and written to each other by residents of India on January 26th every year. It is this day that is of great importance for the history of the country. On January 26, 1950, two important events took place: the Republic of India was established and its Constitution was adopted. Considered a British Dominion until that moment, India finally received the status of a free country.
In Hindi, the holiday is called Gantantra Divas, in English — Republic Day. In fact, it resembles our Constitution Day. On Republic Day, it is customary in India to demonstrate their patriotism and love for the Fatherland.
One of the main national holidays is celebrated by all segments of the population of India. Usually on this day, music is played loudly in all public places, mainly national and patriotic songs. Flags of India are sold everywhere, many people hang them on their balconies.
For civil servants, Republic Day is an official day off (for organizations with increased significance, it is a shortened day). Many non-governmental offices also close in honor of the holiday.
Religious organizations of India also celebrate the holiday. In the temples of Shiva, lingams are decorated with colors of the Indian tricolor, special pujas are held in the temples of Mata-Bharata (Goddess of India).
The most important event of the Republic Day is the big parade in Delhi, taking place on Raj Path Avenue. It is attended by the main persons of the country: the president and the Prime Minister. On the section of the avenue from the Presidential Palace to the India Gate, a military parade with a demonstration of all branches of the Indian army and a display of military equipment takes place first, after which the less official part begins — a festive procession in which musicians, dancers, artisans, artists, even schoolchildren participate.
Ordinary people warmly celebrate Republic Day. They visit each other, go to big cities for parades, visit places of entertainment and catering. The tradition of picnics in nature on this day is very common. Everyone goes en masse to the river, lake, sea or even just to the park to have fun and eat delicious food with family and friends. National and Bollywood songs are played from the speakers, transport is often decorated with flags.
