Republic Day is celebrated on January 26 every year in recognition of the formation of the Constitution of India which came into effect on this day in the year 1950
As is synonymous with every year, the Republic Day Parade 2023 will feature intriguing performances from the Armed Forces, cultural events and showcasing of tableaux from various states
The Republic Day Parade opens with the unfurling of the national flag by the President of India and ends with the beating retreat ceremony
Here are some of the lesser known facts of the Republic Day Parade 2023-
The first Republic Day Parade was held on January 26, 1950 and was led by then Brigadier Moti Sagar of the Gorkha Regiment,
The first President of Indonesia was the first chief guest of India to attend the Republic Day Parade in 1950
Besides the mandatory playing of the National Anthem, Mahatma Gandhi’s favourite song Abide By Me is played at every Republic Day Parade
The 21 Gun Salute is done using seven cannons of the Indian army which are known as 25- Ponders
The unique feature of the 21 Gun Salute is that the time of the firing matches with the time at which the National Anthem is played
Each army personnel who participates in parade has to pass through 4 levels of investigation and their arms are thoroughly checked to ensure that it is not loaded with live bullets
Meanwhile, every participant of the parade have to get ready by 2 AM and arrive at the main venue by 3 AM
The preparation of the parade starts from July and each activity performed on January 26 has to be planned thoroughly as even the smallest error and delay by the fewest minutes could cost heavily to the organizers