How India Celebrated Its First Republic Day

Dr Rajendra Prasad signing a copy of the new Constitution of the Indian Republic at the Constitution Hall, now known as the Central Hall of Parliament, in New Delhi

Today for the first time in our long and chequered history, we find the whole of this vast land from Kashmir in the North to Cape Comorin in the South, from Kathiawad and Kutch in the West to Coconada and Kamrup in the East, brought together under the jurisdiction of one constitution and one union which takes over the responsibility for the welfare of more than 320 million men and women that inhabit it

Dr Rajendra Prasad during his first speech as the President of India.

At a time when it’s difficult to imagine the Republic Day ceremony not operating out of the Rajpath, it might be useful to remember that the Durbar Hall at Government House and not the historic boulevard was the first venue for the festivities after the country got its first President. Herein, India was declared a ‘Sovereign Democratic Republic’ for the first time at exactly 18 minutes past 10 on the morning of January 26, 1950.

74 years have passed since and a lot has changed: our population has trebled, the economy has transformed and we have transformed from a subservient nation into a force to be reckoned with despite all the challenges. For many, January 26, has ceased to be anything more than a date marked in red on a calendar, but for some, it reminds them that our country is much like a phoenix that rose anew.

For those who’d like to remember, here is a glimpse of what our first-ever Republic Day looked like.

Jawaharlal Nehru signing the Constitution of IndiaWikimedia Commons

Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, signing the Constitution of the Indian RepublicThe Hindu

President Rajendra Prasad arrives in his horse-drawn presidential carriage for the Republic Day paradeMerepix

The last Governor General of India C Rajagopalachari (second from right) shakes hands with Air Marshall Sir Thomas Walker Elmhirst at the parade.

The three defence services during a march at the Red Fort ground. The Parade covered a 24-km route, including Red Fort and Walled City areasET

The the 34th and last Governor General of India, Chakravarti Rajagopalachari read out a proclamation announcing the birth of the Republic of India

The the 34th and last Governor General of India, Chakravarti Rajagopalachari read out a proclamation announcing the birth of the Republic of India. The Constitution of India came into effect, declaring India as a sovereign, democratic and secular state. Dr Rajendra Prasad took the oath as the President of the new republic

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