As India prepares to celebrate Republic Day on January 26, 2026, the occasion once again brings focus to the Constitution, democracy, and the power of the people. While the grand parade and patriotic fervour are familiar sights, the story behind Republic Day holds many lesser-known yet fascinating details. These facts reveal how thoughtfully India shaped its identity as a republic, and why January 26 carries such deep meaning.
Although India gained freedom on August 15, 1947, it did not become a republic immediately. For over two years, the country functioned as a constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch as head of state, represented by the Governor-General. India officially became a republic only when its Constitution came into force on January 26, 1950, marking a carefully planned democratic transition.
The date of Republic Day is rooted in India’s freedom struggle. On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress declared Purna Swaraj, or complete independence from British rule. For the next 17 years, this date was observed as Independence Day. Choosing January 26 for the Constitution honoured that historic pledge and linked the republic to the spirit of freedom.
Drafting the Constitution of India was an intense and detailed process. It took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days, with the Constituent Assembly meeting for 165 days across 11 sessions. Every clause was debated thoroughly, ensuring the final document reflected India’s diversity, values, and democratic aspirations.
Unlike most national constitutions, India’s original Constitution was not typed or printed. It was beautifully handwritten in English and Hindi by calligrapher Prem Behari Narain Raizada. Each page featured artwork inspired by Indian traditions, and the original copies are still preserved in the Parliament Library.
Dr B. R. Ambedkar is celebrated as the chief architect of the Constitution, but he was not alone. Over 300 members of the Constituent Assembly contributed their expertise and perspectives. This collective effort ensured the Constitution addressed equality, justice, federalism, and individual rights in a truly democratic manner.
The iconic Republic Day parade was not always held at Rajpath. In 1950, the first parade took place at Irwin Stadium, now known as the National Stadium in Delhi. Rajpath, then called Kingsway, became the permanent venue only in 1955, gradually transforming the parade into the grand spectacle seen today.
One of the most significant changes on Republic Day 1950 was the appointment of India’s first President. Dr Rajendra Prasad took office as the head of state, symbolising the complete end of colonial authority. This shift marked India’s full transformation into a sovereign, democratic republic.
While the Republic Day parade draws maximum attention, the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29 formally concludes the celebrations. Military bands perform patriotic music, flags are lowered, and the ceremony reflects discipline, tradition, and respect for the armed forces, a powerful yet often overlooked ritual.
