Introduction
Have you ever wondered how India celebrates its spirit of freedom and democracy? Republic Day, marked every year on January 26th, is a grand celebration of the day India's constitution came into effect in 1950. This day replaced the old British law and made India a fully sovereign nation. It's a day filled with pride and patriotism as Indians across the nation commemorate their independence and the establishment of their own government.
The highlight of Republic Day is the majestic parade in the capital, New Delhi, where the Indian army, navy, and air force showcase their strength and discipline. Alongside the military, cultural and traditional performances depict the diverse heritage of India. The President and Prime Minister of India also participate in this grand celebration, making it a significant event in the country. It's a day when Indians unite to celebrate their freedom, culture, and achievements. Read this guide for more insights!
History of Republic Day
India became independent on August 15, 1947. However, by this time, India didn’t have any constitution of its own, rather the laws were majorly based upon the modified colonial Government of India Act 1935. Then, it was on August 29, 1947, a separate resolution was passed for appointing the drafting committee. This committee was responsible for the creation of a permanent constitution of our country. And Dr. B.R. Amedakar was chosen as the chairman under whose guidance India entered a new world of glory and success. So, while Independence day mainly celebrates India’s independence, Republic Day celebrates the implementation of India’s constitution. \
Republic Day Parade Ticket Sale Counters
You can witness the Republic Day celebrations live at Rajpath with a ticket. Tickets can be purchased from the following counters that have been placed at the below-mentioned places in Delhi.
- North Block Round About
- Sena Bhawan (Gate No. 2)
- Pragati Maidan (Gate No. 1)
- Jantar Mantar (Main Gate)
- Shastri Bhawan (Near Gate No. 3)
- Jamnagar House (Opposite India Gate)
- Red Fort (inside August 15 Park and opposite Jain Temple)
- Parliament House (Reception office) - special counter for Hon'ble MPs
In order to buy tickets for this grand event, you have to produce valid ID proof at the counter which includes Aadhar Card, Voter ID, or any government ID.
The ticket fare per person for a reserved seat is Rs.500 and Rs.100 and Rs.20 for unreserved seats. These counters will remain open from 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 4:30 pm. Besides these, there will be a special ticket counter at Sena Bhawan that will remain open till 7 pm from January 23 to January 25.
Major Attractions of Republic Day Celebrations 2024
1. The Parade
On this day, the parade at Rajpath is the main attraction of the entire event. Generally, nine to twelve regiments of the Indian Army march past the President honouring him with a salute.
This parade commences with honouring the winners of the gallantry awards which is followed by the display of various tanks, missiles along other military equipment. After this, other armed forces like police as well as Home Guards along with the National Cadet Corps also display their zeal by marching on Rajpath.
2. The Tableaus
After the army and its whole contingent are done displaying their military grandeur, the tableaus depicting the diversity of Indian culture enter the scene showcasing classic performances, folk songs along bike shows. Overall, it is a true fiesta of magical performances. For all this, months of vigorous practice go into all this and the result that comes out is truly exceptional. On an overall basis, there are about 22-30 floats that perfectly exhibit the diversity of Indian culture.
How to Reach Republic Day Celebrations 2024
Besides being the capital of India, Delhi is also the mini India where people from all the states reside and all the regional and national festivals are celebrated with immense enthusiasm. The rich heritage of India, tales of freedom struggle, historic structures, the culture of India everything comes to life here in Delhi!
Delhi has a well-developed transportation structure that enables you to reach here from any part of the country via any mode of transportation such as airways, railways, and roadways. Listed below are some best travel options that you may consider to reach Delhi.
By Air
Delhi is well connected with other major cities via the flight nerwork. It has its own airport namely Indira Gandhi International Airport. One can easily get flights from cities like Pune, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Bangalore. After getting off at the airport, you can get on a cab, metro, or bus to reach the desired destination in Delhi.
The following are the airlines that you may consider if looking for direct flights from prominent cities and states.
- Mumbai - AirAsia, Air India, GoAir, SpiceJet, IndiGo, Vistara with fare starting from Rs.2500
- Kolkata - AirAsia, IndiGo, SpiceJet, AirIndia, Vistara, GoAir with fare starting from Rs.2900
- Bengaluru - AirAsia, SpiceJet, IndiGo, AirIndia, Vistara, GoAir with fare starting from Rs.3000
- Chandigarh - AirAsia, Vistara, GoAir, Air India, IndiGo with fare starting from Rs.1800
- Jaipur - AirAsia, IndiGo, AirIndia with fare starting from Rs.1500
- Lucknow - AirIndia, Vistara, GoAir, IndiGo with fare starting from Rs.1900
Some Popular Domestic Flights to Delhi
By Road
There are regular inter-state tourist buses from other cities to Delhi that terminates at the three major inter-state bus stands which are ISBT at Kashmere Gate, Sarai Kale Khan, and Anand Vihar Bus Terminus. You will get regular and frequent buses from Chandigarh to Delhi with one-way fare starting from Rs.400 per passenger, from Jaipur Rs.190, from Dehradun Rs.195, from Agra Rs.295, and from Panipat Rs.400. The price may go up to Rs.1500 and above in the case of luxury buses.
You can also travel via your own vehicle through motorable national and state highways. Below mentioned is an estimate of distance in kilometers and the best route to take if arriving from nearby or metro cities.
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Jaipur - 573 km via NH 48
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Chandigarh - 245 km via NH 44
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Lucknow - 553 km via Agra - Lucknow Highway
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Kolkata - 1500 km via NH 19
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Mumbai - 1400 km via NH 48
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Bengaluru - 2100 km via NH 44
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Dehradun - 258 km via Saharanpur Road
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Agra - 230 km via Taj Express Highway
By Train
The train connectivity from and to Delhi to other Indian cities is also very good. It is a very affordable and convenient option for anyone to travel via train. There are three major railway stations in Delhi where you may deboard: New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station, and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station. The following are some of the direct trains that you may consider from nearby cities and states.
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Kolkata - Poorva Express, Kalka Mail, Sdah Duronto Express
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Bengaluru - Duronto Express, New Tinsukia Express
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Hyderabad - Falaknuma Express, East Coast Express
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Jaipur - JU HWH Superfast, SDAH Express
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Mumbai - LTT Shalimar Express, Gitanjali Express,
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Agra - UA Toofan Express
Chawri Bazar and New Delhi Metro Stations that are located on the Yellow Line on the Delhi Metro route map are close to New Delhi Railway Station. Chandni Chowk metro station is the nearest if you have deboarded the train at Old Delhi Railway Station and Indraprastha metro station located on the Blue line is the nearest to reach from Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.
Conclusion
Republic Day is more than just a national holiday in India; it's a day of pride, history, and cultural showcase. Watching the parade in person or on television fills one's heart with patriotism and admiration for the country's armed forces. It reminds every Indian of their country's journey to becoming a sovereign republic and the values enshrined in their constitution. Celebrating this day brings the entire nation together, reflecting the unity and diversity that India stands for.
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FAQs About Indian Republic Day
Q1: What is Republic Day?
A1: Republic Day is celebrated on January 26th every year in India to mark the day the Indian Constitution came into effect in 1950, making India a sovereign state.
Q2: Why was January 26 chosen as Republic Day?
A2: January 26th was chosen as Republic Day because on this day in 1930, the Indian National Congress proclaimed the Declaration of Indian Independence (Purna Swaraj) opposed to British rule.
Q3: What happens during the Republic Day parade?
A3: The Republic Day parade showcases India's defence capability and cultural heritage, with participation from the armed forces, cultural dance groups, and floats representing different states.
Q4: Who participates in the Republic Day celebrations?
A4: The President, Prime Minister, government officials, armed forces, cultural groups, and school children participate in the Republic Day celebrations.
Q5: How can people watch the Republic Day parade?
A5: The Republic Day parade can be watched in person in New Delhi or through live broadcasts on television and online platforms.
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