Republic Day 26 January: Meaning, History & Importance

Why Do We Celebrate Republic Day?

Republic Day is one of the most important days in India. Every year on 26^th January, we celebrate Republic Day as a nation because it reminds us how India became a strong republic led by its own people, with its own laws and rights.

Let’s explore what this special day means, why it’s celebrated, and how kids across India join in the joy!

What Is Republic Day?

Republic Day is a national festival celebrated all over India on 26th January each year. It marks the day when the Constitution of India came into force, and India became a fully sovereign republic in 1950.

But what does that mean?

Before this date, India was free from British rule (since 15 August 1947), but it did not have its own complete system of rules and rights. On 26 January 1950, India officially started following its own Constitution, written by great leaders like Dr B.R. Ambedkar and many others, to protect rights, duties, and freedoms for all Indians.

Why Do We Celebrate Republic Day?

We celebrate Republic Day to honour the day India’s Constitution began and made India a republic – a country where people choose their leaders and follow fair rules. This Constitution, also known as the original Constitution of India, works to keep everyone equal, respectful, and safe.

Republic Day helps us remember how our leaders worked together to build a just and democratic country. It inspires young minds to be responsible, brave, and proud citizens.

What Is the Constitution of India?

The Constitution of India is like a big rulebook that tells us:

• What rights every person has — like freedom of speech.
• What duties every citizen should follow — like respecting others.
• How the government should work.

It was adopted on 26 January 1950, and since then, it guides how India grows and protects people.

How Do We Celebrate Republic Day?

On Republic Day across India, people:

• Hoist the Tricolour (Indian flag).
• Sing the National Anthem.
• Share stories about heroes and freedom fighters.
• Participate in school programs with patriotic songs and dances.
• Watch beautiful Republic Day parades on TV or in their cities.

Schools often hold art competitions and activities to help kids feel proud of our heritage and culture.

What Is the Republic Day Parade?

One of the most famous parts of Republic Day is the Republic Day parade in New Delhi! It is a grand show of India’s unity, strength, and rich culture.

This parade is held on the Kartavya Path and includes:

• Soldiers marching with discipline.
• Military vehicles and technology displays.
• Cultural dances and floats from different states.
• Folk music and costumes showing India’s diversity.

Republic Day is not just a holiday – it is a proud reminder that India follows its own rules, made for the people and by the people. On 26th January, we celebrate our Constitution of India, our rights, and our duties as citizens. When we watch the Republic Day parade, sing patriotic songs, and respect our flag, we are also celebrating the unity of our country.

So this Republic Day, let’s feel proud, stay grateful, and promise to be kind, honest, and responsible citizens of the Republic of India.

Note :This article is written by Reshma Joel, an engineer with an MBA, transitioned from a fulfilling HR career to follow her passion for writing. Now a freelance content writer and creative writing mentor, she inspires children to express themselves confidently. She teaches on kid-friendly platforms like Bookosmia and is the author of Nancy and the Dosa Cake, a heartwarming birthday story about love, surprises, and family.

FAQ’s Why Do We Celebrate Republic Day?

When is Republic Day celebrated in India?
Republic Day is celebrated every year on 26th January. This year is 77th Republic Day of India.

Why is Republic Day important?
Republic Day is important because it marks the day when India’s Constitution came into force in 1950, making India a republic.

What is the Constitution of India?
The Constitution of India is the supreme law of our country. It explains our rights, duties, and how the government works.

Who wrote the Constitution of India?
The Constitution of India was written by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar along with many other great leaders.

When was the Constitution of India adopted?
The Constitution of India was adopted on 26 January 1950.

How is Republic Day celebrated in schools?
Schools celebrate Republic Day with flag hoisting, patriotic songs, dances, speeches, drawing competitions, and skits.

What is special about the Republic Day parade?
The Republic Day parade shows India’s unity, culture, and strength through military marches, cultural dances, and state floats.

Where is the Republic Day parade held?
The main Republic Day parade is held in New Delhi on Kartavya Path.

What can children learn from Republic Day?
Children learn to be responsible, kind, respectful, and proud citizens who value freedom and equality.

Where can I buy books?

You can Buy Books at Bookosmia Website and Amazon.

Constitution Land : A Children’s book to understand India’s Preamble

‘Constitution’ is a word we hear often in Civics class. But what does it really mean?This book takes children on a journey to understand the fundamentals of the Indian constitution and encourages them to practise its principles. It introduces young readers to their rights as Indian citizens and the rules and laws that govern our country.
The constitution isn’t just for adults. Every young voice matters therefore this book is for every young reader in India, to practise its principles in their own lives.

With 3000 copies in Social Science Kits for schools, the book has been loved by veterans in the field like Priya Krishnamurthy, CEO and Co-founder, CMCA | Deepika Mogilishetty, Chief of Policy & Partnerships – EkStep Foundation | Priti David, Executive Editor of the People’s Archive of Rural India (PARI)

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This article is published by Bookosmia, India’s #1 publisher for and by young people. Bookosmia publishes stories, books, podcasts, events, TED-Ed talks, workshops, bedtime stories and more related to kids and young adults.

Photo Credit – AI generated images from Chat GPT and Magic Media from Canva .

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A Fun Trip to Constitution Land! Quest to Understand Indian Preamble