New Delhi: India has been celebrating Republic Day on January 26 every year since 1950. On this day, a huge image of India’s culture, heritage, and military prowess is showcased. On January 26, 1950, the Indian Constitution came into force.
The parade showcases tableaux from different states, union territories, and ministries. Thousands of soldiers and several other ministers ensure that the parade is conducted properly. On January 23, a full dress rehearsal of the Republic Day parade was conducted. Let us look at some interesting facts about the Republic Day Parade in India.
Interesting facts about Republic Day parade
- The Republic Day parade takes place on January 26 at Rajpath in New Delhi every year. However, from 1950 to 1954, the parade was held at different locations, including Irwin Stadium (now National Stadium), Kingsway, Red Fort, and Ramleela Maidan. Rajpath became the permanent venue for the parade in 1955. Rajpath was called ‘Kingsway’ and is now known as Kartavyapath.
- Each year, a guest, usually the Prime Minister, President, or a leader from another country, is invited to the parade. The first parade, on January 26, 1950, featured Dr. Sukarno, the President of Indonesia. In 1955, the first parade at Rajpath had Malik Ghulam Mohammad, the Governor-General of Pakistan, as the guest.
- A special camp near India Gate displays tanks, armoured vehicles, and modern equipment to show India’s military strength. Each cannon undergoes a thorough inspection, usually involving 10 stages, but this year may differ.
- The parade starts with the President’s arrival. The President’s bodyguards salute the National Flag while the National Anthem plays, and a 21-gun salute is given.
- Interestingly, there are not 21 cannons for the salute. The Indian Army uses seven cannons, known as “25-Ponders,” which fire in 3 rounds. The timing of these cannon firings matches the National Anthem. The first shot is fired at the beginning of the Anthem, with the last one occurring after 52 seconds. These cannons were made in 1941 and are used in all formal army events.
- Participants in the parade get ready by 2 AM and arrive at Rajpath by 3 AM. Preparations for the parade begin in July of the previous year, and participants are informed of their involvement. They practice at their regiment centres until August and reach Delhi by December. Before performing on January 26, participants complete about 600 hours of practice.
- Each army personnel must pass through four levels of checks. Their arms are carefully inspected to ensure they do not have live bullets.
- During parade rehearsals, each group covers a distance of 12 kilometres. On January 26, they complete a 9-kilometre route. Judges are positioned along the parade route to evaluate each group based on 200 criteria. Based on this assessment, the title of “best marching group” is awarded.
- One exciting part of the parade is the “flypast”. The Western Air Force Command is responsible for involving about 41 aircraft. These planes take off from various Air Force centres and arrive at Rajpath at a specific time.
- The tableaux in the parade move at a speed of around 5 km/h, allowing spectators to see them clearly. The drivers operate the tableaux through small windows.
- The Beating Retreat ceremony, which marks the end of Republic Day celebrations in India, occurs on January 29 at Vijay Chowk. It features performances by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy bands.
India’s Republic Day Parade is a spectacular display of national pride. From its origins in 1950 to its current location at Rajpath (formerly Kingsway), the parade showcases India’s military might, cultural diversity and rich heritage through tableaux from various states. Intriguing details include the precise timing of the 21-gun salute, rigorous preparations, and the extensive judging process. The event concludes with the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
