Republic Day 2024: Interesting R-Day Parade Facts We Bet You Did Not Know

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Republic Day in India is an occasion, celebrated with patriotism on January 26 each year. This day is celebrated to mark the adoption of The Constitution of India in the year 1950 after India became an independent nation, which transformed the nation into a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.

But did you know that the main highlight of this day which is the 'Parade' didn't always take place on the Kartavya path (Rajpath)? So let's delve into the facts of the Republic Day Parade and explore its significance.

The Republic Day Parade is a manifestation of India's unity in diversity. It is a way to exhibit a nation's military strength, cultural heritage, and technological advancements. The parade showcases the diversity of India through different regiment groups and tableaux, bringing together states and union territories to present their unique traditions, dance forms, and artistic expressions on a national stage.

Unknown Facts About Republic Day Parade

1. First Republic Day Parade
After India became Independent in the year 1947 and became a Republic in the year 1950, the first Republic Day was then celebrated on 26 January 1950. The first Republic Day Parade was held in 1950. But this parade did not happen on the Kartavyapath (then Rajpath) but at Irwin Stadium (now Major Dhyan Chand Stadium) in Delhi. This ceremony was witnessed with around 15,000 people who gathered to witness the historic. The venue was changed to Rajpath (now Kartavyapath) the following year.

2. 10 Chief Guests Were Hosted In 2018
In the year 2018, India had ten chief guests from several South Asian nations hosted by our Ex-President Shri Ram Nath Kovind in the Republic Day celebration which is the first ever case in India because usually the number is either one or two.

3. Female Contingent In The Army
It wasn't until 2015 that an all-female contingent from the Army Services Corps participated in the parade. So in the year 2015 the first ever female army troop participated in the parade. This promoted the ideology of "Women Empowerment" and also showed the increasing role of women in the armed forces.

4. Tableau From Foreign Country In 2016
It was the first time when in the year 2016, a tableau from a foreign country (France) also participated in the Republic Day Parade, marking the strong Indo-French ties. This French contingent comprised of 56 personnel of the 35th Infantry Regiment of the 7th Armoured Brigade. That year Chief guest was Francois Hollande, then President of France.

5. Salute To The President
The President of India, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes the salute during the Republic Day Parade. This symbolic gesture reflects the military's allegiance to the civilian authority.

6. First Chief Guest Post-Independence
Inviting the chief guest on Republic Day is a tradition to take place since 1950. Indonesia's President Sukarno was the first chief guest at the Republic Day Parade in 1950, making him the first foreign dignitary to be part of the celebration after independence.

7. Global Viewership
The Republic Day Parade is attended by thousands of spectators along the Rajpath, and millions more tune in to watch the live broadcast on television on this day eagerly with hearts full of enthusiasm. The event garners global attention, showcasing India's unity, diversity, and commitment to democracy.

India's Republic Day Parade is a living example of the nation's journey to progress. This day brings the whole of India together and binds it together stronger every year.

R-Day is around the corner so don't forget to remember our nation's builders and watch this parade from wherever possible. The Republic Day Parade is not just a spectacle, it's a collective ode to the idea of India - a diverse, dynamic, and democratic republic.