New Delhi: Republic Day in India is observed on January 26 every year. Though India gained Independence in 1947, it became a Republic in 1950. On this day in 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect, cementing the country’s transition into a sovereign democratic republic.
The Indian Constitution was adopted on January 26, 1950, and this date was chosen to honour the Indian National Congress’ declaration of Purna Swaraj on January 26, 1930. Did you know that other countries besides India observe Republic Day? In this article, we will look at them.
Beyond India: A Global Look at Republic Day Celebrations
- Italy
- Turkey
- Nepal
- Philippines
- Malta
- Armenia
Italy
Festa della Repubblica, or Republic Day, is Italy’s National Day, celebrated on June 2 every year, mainly in Rome. This day marks the 1946 referendum in which Italians voted to choose their government after the Second World War and the fall of Fascism. The main ceremony includes the President of Italy placing a laurel wreath at the Altare della Patria in honour of the Unknown Soldier, followed by a military parade along Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome.
Turkey
Republic Day, or Cumhuriyet Bayramı, is a public holiday in Turkey on October 29. It marks the declaration of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. Celebrations start at 1 pm on October 28 and last for 35 hours. This day remembers how Mustafa Kemal Atatürk announced Turkey as a republic. Although Turkey had been functioning as a republic since April 23, 1920, it was officially declared in 1923. On this day, Atatürk was elected as the first President of Turkey.
Nepal
Republic Day is a national holiday in Nepal. It celebrates the Constituent Assembly’s first meeting on May 28, 2008, which ended the 240-year reign of Shah kings and established Nepal as a republic. This change ended a civil war that lasted nearly ten years. Republic Day is observed on Jestha 15 in the Nepali calendar. Celebrations include a military parade in Kathmandu and smaller nationwide events organised by government agencies.
Philippines
Philippine Republic Day, or Araw ng Republikang Pilipino, is celebrated on July 4 each year. This day used to be the official Independence Day, marking the signing of the Treaty of Manila in 1946, which granted Independence from the United States. Initially, the holiday was observed on July 4, but President Diosdado Macapagal moved it to June 12 to honour the 1898 Declaration of Independence from Spain. Philippine Republic Day was created as a separate holiday to coincide with the U.S. Independence Day.
Malta
Republic Day, or Jum ir-Repubblika, is a public holiday in Malta on December 13. It celebrates the creation of the Republic of Malta in 1974 and the end of British rule. Sir Anthony Mamo became the first President of Malta. The main celebrations take place in Valletta, organised by the National Festivities Committee. During the event, the President of Malta presents awards to military and public figures who have served the country well.
Armenia
Republic Day, or Hanrapetut’yan, is a national holiday in Armenia. It marks the anniversary of the First Armenian Republic in 1918 and is celebrated with fireworks, concerts, parades, and parties. The first Republic Day celebrations after Soviet rule began with the Karabakh movement. In 1988, people celebrated the First Republic’s 70th anniversary by raising the Armenian flag in front of Matenadaran during a large demonstration in Yerevan. This event marked a celebration and significantly shifted Armenian national sentiment.
This article explores Republic Days celebrated globally, highlighting key dates and historical significance. We delve into Republic Days’ unique origins and traditions in Italy, Turkey, Nepal, the Philippines, Malta and Armenia, showcasing diverse national narratives and commemorative practices. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
