India will celebrate its 70th Republic Day this week, with celebrations aplenty in the capital of New Delhi and elsewhere.
It’s a momentous occasion attended by world leaders and celebrated across the nation of 1.2 billion people.
Here's everything you need to know about India Republic Day:
What is India Republic Day
India became independent from Britain in 1947 but at this time, India did not yet have a permanent constitution.
The constitution was adopted by the Indian Constituent Assembly in 1949 and came into effect on January 26 1950.
The constitution gave India’s citizens the power to govern themselves by choosing their own government.
India Republic Day remembers the day India’s constitution was implemented.
When is it?
This year, India Republic Day falls on Saturday, January 26 to mark when India’s constitution came into force.
How is India Republic Day celebrated?
India Republic Day is a public holiday, so schools and most businesses are closed for the day.
The main Republic Day celebration is the Delhi Republic Day parade, which is led by the three divisions of the Indian Armed Forces. During the ceremony, the Prime Minister lays a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate to pay homage to those who lost their lives in wars. The President then hoists the National flag as the National Anthem is played and a 21-gun salute given.
This year’s Republic Day Parade will remember the Jallianwala Bagh massacre that took place on Baisakhi day in 1919.
Who will be the Chief Guest at India Republic Day?
A foreign head of state usually serves as the president’s chief guest on Republic Day.
This year, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the Chief Guest.
