Rare photos of First Republic Day that make Indians proud!
After Independence, the most important event in the history of modern India is becoming a republic. On 26 January 1950 India turned into a republic nation after replacing the Government of India Act (1935) with the Constitution of India. On every 26th January, we celebrate this day as the Republic Day of India, reminding us of the great values with which our nation was formed.
With the announcement of the republic, the tradition of a magnificent Republic Day parade was also started with the first Republic Day of India. On this 72nd Republic Day, we bring to you some rare unseen photographs of the first Republic Day celebrations.
First President Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Will it surprise you to know that Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the First President of India on 26 January 1950? From independence in 1947 till our first Republic Day, Dr. Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly of India, whose purpose was to prepare the Constitution of India and serve as a provisional parliament.
Dr. B R Ambedkar – Father of Constitution of India
Did you know that while the Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950, it was actually signed on 24 January 1950? The 308 members of the assembly signed 2 handwritten copies (one each in Hindi and English) of the Constitution of India created by a Drafting Committee over a period of two years, 11 months and 18 days. The committee was chaired by Dr. BR Ambedkar also known as “Father of the Constitution of India”
Dr. Prasad greeting the citizens on his way to Irwin Stadium.
Did you know that Dr. Prasad is the only President to serve two full terms? He is still considered by many to be the most popular President of India to date.
The President of India taking the salute from the armed forces.
The Parade
We all know that the Rajpath is the venue for the Republic Day parade but did you know that for the first 5 republic days Irwin Stadium was the venue for the republic day parade? The Republic Day celebrations moved to Rajpath only on 26 January 1955 and after that, it has become the permanent venue for the same.
The Presidential cavalcade
Do you know who offers the first salutes on Republic day? It is the cavalier bodyguards of the President, but they don’t salute the President, instead, they salute the national flag. The salute is accompanied by National Anthem and 21 gun salute.
Armed Forces – The Pride of India
Did you know that the firing of the 21 gun salute isn’t done with 21 canons? The Indian Army uses 7 canons for firing 3 rounds.
We hope that we helped you know India’s biggest festival better and these photographs helped you feel the energy and hope to build a great nation that our forefathers had back in 1950. The Piccle team wishes you all a very Happy Republic Day. Jai Hind!