26 January

This podcast is about 26 January. One of the most important day for all the Indians.Republic Day is celebrated on 26th January every year to mark the day on which our constitution came into effect in 1950. After this day our country truly became democratic and independent. The fundamental law of the country, the Constitution, was enacted out of the diligence and hard work of great men like Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous other freedom fighters who fought and sacrificed their lives for the independence of our country. It was therefore declared a National holiday and has been recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India ever since. It might seem like a question that curious pre-schoolers might ask but it is often asked why the date was specifically chosen for Republic Day to be celebrated. It is to be noted that January 26 had a great significance in India’s struggle for Swaraj or autonomy. The Congress Session at Lahore on December 29, 1929, had passed a resolution declaring Purna Swaraj or complete, absolute autonomy as India’s goal. It was also decided that the 26th of January should be observed all over India as Purna Swaraj Day. The complete Independence Day was celebrated on January 26th, 1930 for the first time. It continued to be observed until 1947. On achieving Independence, August 15 began to be celebrated as our Independence Day. The day brings together people of different casts, creeds, colors and backgrounds to celebrate the occasion with great fervor and enthusiasm. The national capital Delhi also hosts a grand parade to mark the occasion in which the Indian Military takes part and exhibits the grandeur that is associated with it. The pride and rich diversity of the country is on display in the parade which starts after the president unfurls the national flag and people pay their respects to martyrs who lost their lives while serving the country. This podcast is written by Himanshi Chauhan. Recording is done by Tanisha Rawat and Himanshi Chauhan. Ending quotation by Manshi Singh. Keep listening Youthvoicemanshii