Republic Day 2023: History, significance and parade details

India will mark its 74th Republic Day this year.

Republic Day is celebrated to mark the day India adopted its Constitution on January 26, 1950. It differs from Independence Day, which commemorates the end of British rule on August 15, 1947.

The Constitution, one of the longest and most detailed in the world, was drafted by BR Ambedkar and it established India as a democratic republic and a union of states. The draft was publicly debated and adjusted for two years before finally being put into effect on January 26, 1950.

To mark the historic day, Republic Day is celebrated annually with a public parade along Rajpath avenue, officially named Kartavya Path, in New Delhi.

This year’s Republic Day parade will have the largest drone show in India with 3,500 indigenous UAVs. A 3D anamorphic projection will be organised during the ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony. The drones will feature national figures and events and also depict India’s start-up ecosystem and technological advances. This event will be organised by Botlabs Dynamics.

Over 1,200 performers will be taking centrestage on Republic Day showcasing their talent and art forms. Approximately 60,000 people are expected to attend the event. The Indian armed forces will perform a Horse Show, Khukuri Dance, Gatka, Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu, Thang-ta, Motorcycle Display, Air Warrior Drill, Navy Band, and martial arts among others.

Egypt's President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi is the chief guest for Republic Day 2023. A 120-member contingent from Egypt will march during the celebrations.

Traffic movement on Kartavya Path from Vijay Chowk to India Gate will be barred from 6 pm on January 22 till the end of the parade and the cross traffic on Kartavya Path from Rafi Marg, Janpath, Man Singh Road from 11 pm till the Republic Day 2023 parade is over.