Republic Day is one of India’s most significant national holidays, celebrated annually on January 26. It commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, marking India’s transition into a sovereign democratic republic.
However, as we approach Republic Day 2025, there’s some confusion: Is it the 76th or 77th Republic Day? Let’s clear up this doubt and explore everything you need to know about this year’s celebrations.
Is Republic Day 2025 the 76th or 77th Celebration?
The confusion arises from how anniversaries are counted. India celebrated its first Republic Day on January 26, 1950. Each subsequent year marks one more Republic Day. For example:
- The 2nd Republic Day was in 1951.
- The 3rd Republic Day was in 1952, and so forth.
By following this sequence, 2025 marks the 76th Republic Day, as it celebrates 75 completed years since the Constitution came into effect in 1950. The misunderstanding often comes from mistakenly adding an extra year during calculations.
Historical Significance of Republic Day
The date January 26 was deliberately chosen to honor the historic declaration of Purna Swaraj (complete independence) by the Indian National Congress on January 26, 1930.
Although India gained independence on August 15, 1947, it wasn’t until January 26, 1950, that the Constitution replaced the colonial Government of India Act (1935) and India became a republic.
Adoption of the Constitution
The Indian Constitution was finalized on November 26, 1949, but officially implemented on January 26, 1950. This monumental event laid the foundation for India’s democratic governance and enshrined principles like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Republic Day Celebrations in 2025
This year’s theme is “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Progress). It emphasizes India’s rich cultural legacy while highlighting its strides in development and modernization.
Grand Parade at Kartavya Path
The centerpiece of Republic Day celebrations is the grand parade held at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) in New Delhi. The parade showcases:
- Marching contingents from the Indian Armed Forces.
- Vibrant tableaux representing states and union territories.
- Cultural performances highlighting India’s diversity.
- A breathtaking flypast by fighter jets leaving trails of saffron, white, and green smoke.
This year’s parade will feature:
- 31 tableaux, including representations from states like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
- A special tri-services tableau themed Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat (Empowered and Secure India).
Chief Guest for Republic Day Parade
The Chief Guest for Republic Day 2025 is Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, marking a significant milestone in diplomatic relations between India and Indonesia.