26 January 2026
All States National holiday | Monday |
On January 26th, India celebrates Republic Day. Also known informally as R-Day, this public holiday is one of four national holidays and is always celebrated on this date. Republic Day is an important national holiday that commemorates the establishment of the Constitution of India. The adoption of the constitution marked the transition to full independence from Britain as it ended Lord Mountbattens role as governor-general of India. The Drafting Committee, headed by Dr BR Ambedkar took around 2 years and 11 months to put together the Indian Constitution.
January 26th was chosen as the date for the adoption of the constitution as it was on January 26th 1930 when Purna Swaraj, the Declaration of Indian Independence was proclaimed by the Indian National Congress. The Indian Independence Act was passed in Britain in July 1947 and India had become a dominion within the Commonwealth on August 15th 1947. This event is remembered as Indian Independence Day, which is also a national holiday. Republic Day has been marked by parades, patriotic songs, exhibitions and fun, celebrating the cultural unity of India since 1950 when it was first officially celebrated.
The Christian hymn titled Abide With Me, is played to mark the end of R-Day celebrations. It is believed to have been one of Mahatma Gandhis favourite songs.
The Delhi Republic Day Parade is organised by the Ministry of Defence, it starts from the Rashtrapati Bhavan gates and puts forth Indias defence capabilities, cultural and social heritage and puts the diversity of the country on the limelight. The festivities in Delhi last for a week with lots of special events and a large parade that highlights each state.
This holiday is a dry day in India when the sale of alcohol is not permitted.