REPUBLIC DAY
“I SPI: Seeing culture through every eye” is a new series on iPatriotPost and ActionPAKT aiming to combat ignorance with cultural education. According to a survey conducted by ActionPAKT, only 46% of American students (53 out of 116 total respondents) were able to name and explain the significance behind a celebration outside of their own culture. I SPI will spotlight a different tradition in each article in order to raise awareness and acceptance. If you have an idea about something we could feature, please fill out this Google Form.
Soft fabric of saffron, white and green glimmers in the sunlight as the breeze blows the Indian flag open for millions to see the small blue chakra in the center. Flag-hoisting ceremonies showcase the nation’s patriotism and pride, especially on Republic Day.
After securing independence from the British Aug. 15, 1947, the freedom fighters of India drafted a new Constitution which came into effect almost three years later. Republic Day every Jan. 26 commemorates this event annually.
Parades, cultural programs and individual celebrations take place across the country, but the main event is in the country’s capital, New Delhi. The prime minister lays a wreath on the Amar Jawan Jyoti, a war memorial to honor lost soldiers.
Senior Mudit Marwaha’s parents moved to the U.S. from India in 1999. His family enjoys talking about Indian history, and he recounts fond memories of storytime in his childhood. At the present, Marwaha’s family puts a more contemporary twist on the Republic Day celebrations.
“My family celebrates Republic Day by watching old Indian movies, both Bollywood and patriotic films,” Marwaha said.
This past winter break, he visited New Delhi and witnessed a lot of preparations for the Prime Minister’s Republic Day speech at the Red Fort.
“When we visited the Red Fort we saw a lot of security and Indian flags around. The anticipation of the parades seemed to fill the whole city up with adrenaline and excitement,” Marwaha said.
The traditional celebrations in New Delhi began with the first Republic Day in 1950. Presently, schools, organizations, colleges and private citizens may all host their own parties and celebrations, wearing traditional clothing and preparing a feast of Indian food.
“My favorite part of the celebrations is learning more about the history of the country I’m from and being able to appreciate the uniqueness of my family’s culture,” Marwaha said.
