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India celebrates its 74th Republic Day

26 January 2023, MVT 11:38
Spectators gather to watch the full dress rehearsal for the upcoming Republic Day parade, in New Delhi on January 23, 2023 -- Photo: Money Sharma/ AFP
26 January 2023, MVT 11:38

India had to endure many trials and tribulations on its way to becoming a prosperous nation. The nation has witnessed it all, from being dominated by Mughal kings to being governed by the British Empire. Therefore, when the constitution was drawn up in 1950, it was a source of immense pride for the nation's people. The adoption of the constitution was a historical moment for the country, with the day being observed as India's Republic Day.

On August 15, 1947, India declared its independence from Britain, a day recognised as a separate national holiday. Yet, for the first three years of its independence, the colonial Government of India Act of 1935 continued to play a significant role in the country's governance.

The Indian National Congress' Purna Swaraj (meaning 'total independence) resolution passed at its Lahore Session in 1929 called for complete independence instead of dominion status. The resolution marked the beginning of a large-scale political movement against colonial rule and was seen as the first tangible step toward independence from Britain.

The resolution was a critical change in strategy for achieving independence. The demand for freedom was now called 'justice' and not charity. During the constitution-making process between 1946 and 1950, the members of the Constituent Assembly chose 26 January 1950, for the Constitution of India to come into effect; it was a nod to the public declaration of Purna Swaraj.

The Republic of India, a "sovereign socialist secular democratic republic" that "secures all its citizens justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity," was the name given to the nation by the 1950 constitution.

Today, the national holiday's centrepiece is a sizeable parade that features cultural, historical, and military performances and is held in the capital city of New Delhi. Prior to the march, the Prime Minister pays tribute to the fallen troops by placing a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, an arched war memorial.

Every year, millions of people can enjoy a live stream of the Republic Day Parade. The Beating Retreat Ceremony in New Delhi, where bands from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force perform, brings the celebrations to a formal finale on January 29.

The theme of this year's Republic Day festivities is "Jan-Bhagidari," which translates to 'participation of the people.' Scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, a presentation of the Amarnath cave shrine, a drone display, and other festivities will all be part of the Republic Day celebrations in 2023.

The diplomatic ties between India and the Maldives were established on 1 November, 1965. The two countries have maintained an enduring friendship, exceptional cooperation, and advantageous bilateralism. The Maldives' relations with India are unsurpassed by any other country in the area since both nations have stayed steadfastly devoted to the friendship through constant and close collaboration that has been free of any bilateral irritants. Throughout their histories, both countries have upheld the values of respect, cooperation, and consideration for each other's vulnerabilities.

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