While India gained its independence from the clutches of the British rule on the 15 of August 1947 the nation was still governed on the basis of colonial constitution called the Government of India Act 1935. Freedom in the truest sense was actually the 26th of January of 1950 when the Indian nation brought its own constitution into existence.
When India gained its independence on the 15 of August 1947, the country did not have its own permanent constitution. So it was only on the 28th August of that year that the then Indian government instituted a Drafting Committee to sketch out a permanent constitution. Among the many involved in the process it was Shri B.R.Ambedkar who headed this committee.
On the 4th of November of 47, a draft constitution was presented before the Indian Assembly. After deliberating on the issue, the members of the assembly signed a handwritten version on the 24th of January 1950.Following this the final constitution was accepted and brought into effect two days later on the 26th.
It was immediately after this historic day that India elected its first president Dr. Rajendra Prasad. With his election and consequent unfurling of the national flag India transited to being a sovereign democratic nation and hence this day is such a celebrated one in the history of Nation.
Interestingly the Indian constitution with 395 articles and 8 schedules, it is perhaps the longest such constitution in the world. The day when this constitution was instituted i.e. the 26th of January is one of the foremost national holidays of India. This day is typically celebrated across the length and breadth of this country with terrific pomp and grandeur.
The national capital, which is Delhi, becomes the venue for the most outstanding event of its kind where a superb march past is held. The three wings of the armed forces, namely Army, Navy and Air force present their colours along with events organized by various state groups. The chief of this event is the President of India who accepts a salute by the members of the armed forces. This is also the venue for awarding people from the armed forces and citizens with various bravery awards
The republic day is considered one of the grandest spectacles which are visited by thousands of Indian citizens and a lot of foreign visitors as well. With a rich cultural heritage such as India, the event is truly a sight to behold for the sheer diversity and grandeur not seen anywhere else.
A similar event is also organized in every state of India though of a smaller size compared to the one held in the capital. There are a number of foreign dignitaries who visit the main event in the national capital.
