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Independence Day vs Republic Day Flag Hosting: On January 26, the President will hoist the tricolor on Duty Path, New Delhi, while on August 15, the Prime Minister hoists the tricolor from the Red Fort. Both look the same, but their methods and meanings are different. There is also a difference in the process of hoisting the flag. Let’s know what is the difference.
Every year on August 15, the festival of independence in India is celebrated with full enthusiasm and patriotism. On this day, tributes are paid to the brave martyrs of the country by waving the tricolor. But there are some special rules to hoist the tricolor, which every Indian needs to know. Have you ever wondered why the method of hoisting the flag on 15 August and 26 January is different? Let’s understand it in easy words.
August 15, that is, Independence Day, reminds of the freedom received in 1947. This day is a symbol of becoming free from English rule and becoming an independent nation. The main ceremony takes place at the Red Fort in Delhi, where the Prime Minister hoists the tricolor. This is not only a ritual, but also expresses respect for the heroes martyred for the country.
How to hoist the flag on Independence Day?
On Independence Day, the tricolor is tied to the part of the flag. The Prime Minister draws the rope and takes it up and as soon as the flag is waved openly, the national anthem starts ringing. This process is called “hoisting”, and it is a symbol of our freedom struggle and sacrifice.
Whereas Republic Day is celebrated on 26 January because the Constitution of India came into force on this day in 1950. On this day, India became a democratic republic, where the country is operated according to its laws. This day is a symbol of the democratic system achieved after independence and respect for the Constitution.
How to hoist the flag on Republic Day?
On 26 January, the flag is already tied up in the top of the pole. The President draws rope, which opens the flag and sometimes it also rains flowers from it. This process is called “Unfurling”. This is followed by a grand parade, in which the strength of the army, the tableaux of the states, cultural dances and the achievements of the country are displayed.
What is the difference
This is the biggest difference in the process of hoisting the flag of 15 August and 26 January, this is hoisted by pulling the flag from the bottom on Independence Day, while the flag already tied above on Republic Day is opened (Unfurling).
Difference between leadership and message
Leadership is also different in both these ceremonies. On August 15, the Prime Minister hoists the flag, while the President on 26 January. The message of these two days is also different – Swatantra Day reminds of freedom and struggle, while Republic Day reflects the importance of constitution, democracy and solidarity.
Why is it important to know?
This difference is not only of rituals, but of history and thinking. August 15 reminds us of the price of independence and the sacrifice for it, while 26 January realizes the responsibility of handling the freedom we get under the Constitution.
So this time when you see the President hoisting the tricolor on 26 January, then understand that it is not just the beginning of a parade, but a proud moment of India’s democratic journey. (Image Credit: Canva)
