What it marks
On 26 January 1950, the Constitution of India came into force, and India became a sovereign, democratic republic. The date was chosen to honour 26 January 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared Purna Swaraj, complete independence, as its goal.
The Constitution guarantees every citizen equality before the law and freedom of religion, and prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth. Those principles are close to the spirit of OIOA: every community with the same place, the same respect and the same care.
How it is observed
- The Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi, with the President taking the salute, displays from the armed forces, and tableaux from states and union territories showing India’s diverse cultures.
- Flag hoisting in state capitals, schools, offices and housing societies.
- Cultural programmes in schools and communities.
- Beating Retreat on 29 January, marking the end of the Republic Day celebrations.
A national holiday
Republic Day is one of India’s three national holidays, observed everywhere, together with Independence Day (15 August) and Gandhi Jayanti (2 October). Its date is fixed. When 26 January falls on a Friday or Monday, it makes a long weekend.
How OIOA helps
- Holidays and long weekends show national holidays alongside state holidays and mark long weekends.
- Cards to share Republic Day wishes with friends and colleagues of every community.
Wishing someone
“Happy Republic Day”, “Gantantra Diwas ki shubhkamnayein”.
The other national days are Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. To plan around them, read planning long weekends in India.