Greetings for 68th Republic day of India!

With pride and heart today many Indians will celebrate the 68th Republic Day of India along with the Parade in the heart of India, New Delhi. Here are a few things to know about this auspicious day. 

• It was in 1930 on 26th January when India's Independence Day was promoted along the phrase 'Purna Swaraj' which means full freedom. 
• Yet in the official freedom was adopted on 15th August 1947, and the day for republic was marked in 1950 after the declaration of freedom by the Indian Constitution. 
• Hence, the first ever celebrated Republic day was in 1950, on 26th January.
• The first Chief of guest was President Sukarno of Indonesia for the parade held in New Delhi.
• Along with the celebrations Dr Rajendra Prasad took oath for the first President of India, at the Durbar Hall of Government House.
• Most people may know it as a one day celebration, but it ends after 3-days with the Beating Retreat on the 29th of January.
• Rajpath was confirmed permanent location for the republic day parade in 1955. Prior to that it was also organised at Irwin Stadium, Kingsway, Red Fort and even at Ramlila Grounds.
• Mahatma Gandhi's favourite song by Scottish Anglican Henry Francis Lyte, 'Abide with Me' a Christian hymn is always played during Republic Day.
• And last but not the least, this day many courageous true heroes of India, get awarded for their heroism and gallantry acts.

Happy 68th Republic Day of India, 2017.