India Gate, New Delhi

© Amith Nag Photography/Getty Image

Three shades, one spirit. Republic Day

Republic Day isn't just any other occasion—it's an emotion. Every year on this day, the country wakes up to patriotic anthems, flag hoistings and a sense of unity. In 1950, on this day, India adopted its Constitution, officially becoming a sovereign republic. The President of India delivers an address to the nation on the eve of Republic Day. On the day itself, he raises the national flag in New Delhi, while Governors and Lieutenant Governors perform flag-hoisting ceremonies in their respective states and union territories.

The grandest celebration unfolds along the Kartavya Path in New Delhi, a ceremonial boulevard stretching from the majestic Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill to the India Gate. The President, serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, presides over the Republic Day celebrations with grand parades and vibrant cultural performances. Organised by the Ministry of Defence, the highlight of the event is the Delhi Republic Day parade, where the President takes the ceremonial salute from marching contingents of the army, navy, air force, paramilitary and police forces.