Happy Republic Day!!!

Surprise, it's another holiday here in India. However, this holiday is not related to any religion, but is rather Republic Day, which celebrates the day the India's constitution was instituted and India officially became a sovereign state (January 26, 1950). On this day, India finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the others who fought for and gave their lives for an independent India.



Republic Day is kicked off the eve of the holiday by a Presidential address (called the Presidential to the nation) where the President awards both military personnel as well as citizens for outstanding bravery and also gives something like the State of the Union Address. The President here in India holds very little power (most of the power lies with the Prime Minister), and as such is usually a more likable figure. The current President of India is Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a very popular and well-loved man (and also a scientist). On Republic Day itself, a large parade takes place in New Delhi where each year the Chief Guest of the parade is the head of state of a different country (this year it is Vladimir Putin of Russia). The parade consists of different regiments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force marching in formation in full regalia. Following the military display, each state is represented by a parade float or type of exhibit, which underscores the diversity and richness of culture here in India. The parade is televised (unfortunately I had to work so I missed it) and watched by millions, as Republic Day is the most popular of all of the national holidays (or so I read).



Happy Republic Day!!



P.S. Four days til the next holiday, and I am exhausted!