Republic Day is celebrated to remember the day when India’s constitution came into force on January 26, 1950. The constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, but it was brought into effect from January 26, 1950, as it marks the 20th anniversary of ‘Purna Swaraj’ or the complete independence from the British. The first Republic Day was celebrated at the Arwin Amphitheatre (current Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium) in Delhi. Unlike now, the first Republic Day had to performances and acts. The day was celebrated in a simple way with the Army band, flag hoisting, and national anthem. On the 69th Republic Day, let’s rewind the clock as we take you a trip down the memory lane.
On the way to Irwin Stadium, Delhi, President Dr Rajendra Prasad greeting the citizens.

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With a 31-gun salute at the Irwin Stadium in Delhi, India was declared as a Republic and Dr Rajendra Prasad as the President on January 26, 1950 at 10:30 am.

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India’s first president Dr Rajendra Prasad taking the salute.

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The chief guest at the first Republic Day parade was Indonesian President Dr Sukarno and his wife.

Also read: Why do we celebrate Republic Day on January 26?
The first republic day parade at Irwin Amphitheatre, in the picture the walls of Purana Qila are visible.

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As the parade marched from Irwin Amphitheatre to Red Fort people waiting to catch a glimpse.

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Images from istaunch.com first published here
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