Republic Day of India is celebrated on 26th January every year. On this date in the year 1950, India had its constitution and thus this date became one of the important dates in the Indian history. The day is honored and celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy. The whole nation wakes up in the spirit of patriotism by singing and playing patriotic songs along with organizing cultural programs. The main event of the republic day takes place at Rajpath in New Delhi, the capital of India. People in huge numbers and from different parts of India gather at the India Gate to witness the Grand Parade. The entire parade is also telecasted live on the national television. Below are the main highlights of the Republic Day Parade that takes palace annually.

Republic Day Parade:

The day commence with the offering of a floral wreath by the Indian Prime Minister to the Amar Jawan Jyoti. It commemorates those souls of the freedom fighters who fought for the freedom of their very own country. The Prime Minister is then escorted to the main dais at Rajpath, where he is joined by the President and the other dignitaries. The President unfolds the Indian flag. People show respect to the nation by playing the National Anthem. A 21 gun salute is then presented in honor of the guests.

Next in the row is the bravery award, medals for the bravery such as Ashoke Chakra and Kirti Chakra. These are presented to those who have shown exceptional skills in their respective fields. This marks the beginning of the parade by the three pillars of Indian Army (the Army, the Navy and the Air Force).  Dressed in their finest attires and adorned with official decorations, the soldiers partake in the parade. While passing by the President as gesture of respect they bring down their weapons and salute the president. The winners of the gallantry awards move on the premise riding on open jeeps. Kids, who win National Bravery Awards, also participate riding on elephants.

The parade continues in a grand manner with the Indian Military showcasing their latest acquisitions (Missiles, radars, tanks etc). Different helicopters of the Indian Air force showcase their skills and stunts while flying over the ceremonious ground. They also shower petals of rose on the audience who are present on the premise. Latest inventions and developments of the various government departments and ministries are also put on display during the parade.

Cultural groups from different parts of the country also exhibit their cultural heritage through dance and other forms. Children from various schools get a chance to display their tableaus on patriotic songs. This is followed by displays of dangerous and exciting skilful motor-cycle shows by the Armed Forces personnel.

And last but not the least, the jets and the fighter planes show their dangerous skills and they symbolically salute the President. It then marks the conclusion of the Republic Day parade.