26th January Republic Day Facts You Should Know

The Republic day celebrations in our country is quite a grand affair and is a firm part of our history.

Watching the Republic day celebration on TV is a ritual for most people on 26th January which is a national holiday. However, not many people know much about why it is celebrated or the significance of the day. Republic is not 'just' another holiday and there lies a lot of significance behind the celebrations.

Here are 7 Republic day facts you must know.

7. The date 26 January, as everyone knows, was when the Constitution of India came into force. This date was, later on, chosen to honour the memory of the “Declaration of Independence of 1930” from the British Rule.

6. The Prime Minister places a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti as a mark of respect to the thousands of soldiers of the country who had died fighting for the Indian Independence.

5. The 21 gun salute is the firing of arms and canons as a naval and military mark of honour. The salute is given while the President of India unfurls the National flag.

4. Republic day is chosen as the day to give away bravery awards to deserving candidates. The awards that are given away are Veer Chakra, Maha Veer Chakra, Param Veer Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Ashoka Chakra.

3. The 'Beating Retreat' held on 29th January, marks the end of all Republic day celebrations in the country. The ceremony is held Vijay Chowk where bands of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy perform.

2. The ceremonial performance of bands of the defense forces was started in the early 1950s by a certain Major Roberts of the Indian Army.

1. One of the most popular tune that is played at the Republic day functions is 'Abide with me', a Christian hymn, which was said to be Mahatma Gandhi's favourite.