Independence Day vs Republic Day. What is the difference between Independence Day and Republic Day? The flag is also different

India celebrates two big national festivals every year. Independence Day on 15 August and Republic Day on 26 January. Both days are full of patriotism and a sense of unity, but their importance is different. Independence Day is reminiscent of independence from British rule in 1947, while Republic Day is a symbol of the Constitution to be implemented in 1950 and becoming a full republic of India. The spirit of patriotism is the same in both, but there are many differences in their ways of celebrating.

Independence Day is remembered by the long struggle of India’s independence, which was completed on 15 August 1947 with the end of British rule. This day is to pay tribute to all those freedom fighters, who sacrificed the country for the independence of the country. On the other hand, Republic Day is the day when India implemented its constitution on 26 January 1950 and became a sovereign republic. This day is a symbol of the fact that now the highest power of the country is in the hands of the people and their chosen representatives.

On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort, addresses the nation and cultural programs are organized. The focal point of this day is to remember the freedom struggle and share the vision of a strong India. On Republic Day, there is a grand parade on the Duty Path (Rajpath) of the capital Delhi, which shows India’s military power, cultural diversity and technological progress. On this day the President hoists the flag and takes the parade salute.

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On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag upwards, which is a symbol of the nation, rising from slavery. The flag is tied down and it is pulled up and opened. On Republic Day, the President does not hoist the flag but unfurls, which is already tied above, it shows that India is now a completely established republic. This small but meaningful difference explains the purpose of both days. Independence Day events are mostly locally located, schools, offices, colonies and societies have flag hoisting and cultural programs. Its purpose is to celebrate gratitude and freedom towards freedom fighters. The main attraction on Republic Day is the parade of the capital Delhi, which people from all over the country like to watch TV or live. Both days awaken the spirit of patriotism and pride, but Independence Day reminds us of the price and struggle of freedom, while Republic Day makes us realize that after independence we have to maintain a strong democracy under law and constitution. Both festivals inspire us to perform duty towards the country.