How Schools and Colleges Across India Celebrate Republic Day

Flag Hoisting Ceremony

Republic Day in schools begins with a grand assembly in the campus ground. The fluttering tricolour against a crisp blue sky—it paints quite a picture. Pinned on their proudly puffed chests are paper-crafted flags that tiny hands have shaped with love. As a chief guest—usually a local dignitary or alumnus—does the honours of unfurling the flag, a sea of little palms rises in salute. The national anthem reverberates through the ground, an annual goosebump moment for many.

Cultural Programmes

But how is Republic Day celebrated in India beyond flag-hoisting programmes? Republic Day in school is marked by vibrant cultural events that showcase the talents of young students. It is a day when music, dance, and drama clubs come alive with enthusiasm. Performances range from Rabindra Sangeet recitals to Kuchipudi dances and skits depicting India’s freedom struggle, highlighting the rich tapestry of the nation's cultural heritage. Spirited renditions of patriotic songs like "Saare Jahan Se Accha" add to the festive mood.

Republic Day Speech and Essay Competitions

Republic Day activities in school often include competitions based on patriotic themes, such as essay writing, art, or elocution, fostering a deeper connection with India’s history and ideals. These events not only celebrate the nation’s diversity but also instill a sense of pride and patriotism in young minds.

Students don kurtas in white, green, or saffron to wax eloquent on topics like "India of My Dreams" or "Unity in Diversity." The campus rings with slogans of "Jai Hind!" as each speech concludes. Essays, whether neatly handwritten or artfully typed, pay homage to the indomitable spirit of India's founding fathers and their lofty constitutional values.

Some schools also conduct quizzes on why and how is Republic Day celebrated in India and the Indian freedom movement, testing how well students have imbibed their history lessons. It's a delight to watch young minds grapple with questions on Gandhian principles or Ambedkar's role in shaping the Constitution.

Republic Day Celebrations in Colleges

Republic Day celebrations in colleges are marked by grandeur, enthusiasm, and a mix of formal and cultural events, making them a memorable occasion. Let's see how Republic Day is celebrated in India across colleges.

Flag Hoisting Ceremony

Celebrations in colleges begin with a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony. Local dignitaries, faculty members, and students gather to mark the occasion. The event is graced by NCC cadets and NSS volunteers, who perform a synchronised march-past, along with student council members. Faculty members, dressed in traditional attire such as sarees and bandhgalas, add a sense of dignity to the ceremony. This aspect of the Republic Day celebration in college reflects the importance of honouring the nation’s flag and fostering unity.

Cultural Events and Performances

Colleges often have a tradition of hosting a grand cultural evening on Republic Day. The campus wears a festive look, with tricolour streamers and balloons adorning every corner. The auditorium reverberates with the sonorous notes of a classical music concert or the rhythmic thuds of a dance performance. Street plays on social issues are a common feature, as are poetry slams and stand-up comedy acts with a patriotic twist. Fashion shows with tricolour-themed collections showcase the creative flair of design students. In a few campuses, celebrity alumni grace the event as chief guests, adding a touch of star power.

Republic Day Themed Competitions

Many colleges hold essay-writing and oratorical contests in the run-up to January 26th. Cash prizes and shiny trophies await the winners. Photography and short film competitions centred on the Republic Day theme attract shutterbugs and aspiring filmmakers. Debates on topics like 'How is Republic Day celebrated in India?" "Is the Constitution a living document?" or "Secularism in India: myth or reality?" see students passionately put forward their stance.

Traditional games such as kite-flying and kabaddi matches encourage camaraderie and participation among students. The entire day is a perfect blend of solemnity, patriotism, and celebration, making it an event to remember and a proud testament to India’s democratic and cultural values.

Food festivals are another highlight, with stalls dishing out regional delicacies from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. It's a gastronomic tribute to India's culinary diversity.