Republic Day is celebrated all over the country with a lot of enthusiasm on January 26. Rajpath in Delhi witnesses a unique experience and an amazing display of the country’s cultural richness takes you through the journey of the great tri-colour. Here is all you need to know about the celebrations galore. By Ritika Dixit
Every year on January 26 people from across the country flock to New Delhi to witness the exquisiteness of Indian culture and diversity through the amazing mix of tableaux from all Indian states along with the military forces of the nation, including the Indian army, its various regiments, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and others. The grand parade starts from Raisina Hills near the President’s House, along Rajpath, past India Gate and on to the majestic Red Fort. The celebration is filled with pride for the country in the presence of the most honourable Heads of State.
If you wish to witness the grand Republic day celebrations on January 26, there are two ways—through special invitations or through tickets which can only be purchased offline. The ticket counters are available at various venues like Departmental Sale Counters at North Block roundabout, South Block roundabout, Pragati Maidan Gate No. 1, Jantar Mantar Main Gate, Shastri Bhawan Gate No. 1, India Gate Jamnagar House side, Red Fort near police picket, Parliament House Reception Office, Government of India Tourist Office, India Tourism Development Corporation travel counters at Ashok and Janpath Hotels, Delhi Tourism Development Corporation counters at Coffee Home, Food and Craft Bazar, Dilli Haat, INA Market, and Shri Gandhi Ashram at Chandni Chowk. Do remember to carry a government-issued ID card, voter ID or Aadhar card in order to purchase the tickets to this grand annual celebration of culture, diversity and patriotism.
The celebrations begin with commemorating the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in their love for the motherland. Then, with a 21 gun salute, the President hoists the National Flag and the National Anthem is played, which marks the beginning of the splendid parade. Soon after, awards and medals of bravery are given to officers of the armed forces who have shown exceptional courage on the field and to civilians who distinguished themselves by great acts of valour. Thus begins the grand spectacle of diversity and cultural richness of India.
Following the parade, Lok Tarang–National Folk Dance Festival organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in association with seven Zonal Cultural Centres will provide you with a look into the colourful and authentic folk dances from all corners of the nation. The official closing of the Republic Day festivities on the evening of January 29 is just as grandiose with massed bands of the three services marching in unison, playing popular marching tunes. Then the Drummers Call is followed by the Budge Call, where the bandmaster takes away the bands after permission from the President. Followed by a singing of the National Anthem, the Republic Day festivities are declared concluded.
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