Why the Flag is Unfurled on Republic Day and Hoisted on Independence Day

The national flag holds immense significance in India’s history and its journey towards sovereignty. While both Independence Day and Republic Day involve raising the flag, the act of unfurling the flag on Republic Day carries a specific symbolic meaning, distinct from the hoisting of the flag on Independence Day.

Why the Flag is Unfurled on Republic Day

On 26 January, the President of India unfurls the national flag at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) during the Republic Day celebrations. The term unfurling is used because, by 1950, India had already achieved independence and was no longer under colonial rule. Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution, which came into effect on 26 January 1950, officially establishing India as a sovereign, democratic republic.

The flag is already positioned at the top of the pole and is simply unfurled, symbolising that the country is fully independent, self-governing, and functioning under its own laws. This practice signifies the consolidation of India’s democratic framework and governance.

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How it is Different from Independence Day

On Independence Day, celebrated on 15 August, the Prime Minister hoists the flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi. The act of hoisting involves raising the flag from the bottom of the pole, signifying the rise of India as a free nation after gaining independence from British rule in 1947. In contrast, the unfurling of the flag on Republic Day reflects a nation that is already independent and established, governed by its Constitution.

The difference between hoisting the flag on Independence Day and unfurling it on Republic Day underscores India’s historic milestones. Independence Day marks the hard-fought struggle for freedom, while Republic Day celebrates the culmination of that freedom with the adoption of a democratic Constitution. Together, they honour the country’s progress from a colony to a sovereign republic.

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