The first Republic Day celebration of India, held on January 26, 1950, marked a momentous occasion in the country’s history as it transitioned into a Sovereign Democratic Republic. Unlike the grand parades witnessed today at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath), the inaugural celebration unfolded at the Irwin Amphitheatre, a 1930s-era structure later renamed the National Stadium.
Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, graced the occasion as the chief guest, signifying the spirit of friendship between the two nations. The capital city of New Delhi turned into a “fairyland,” with iconic buildings and streets illuminated to commemorate the birth of the Republic.
The day began with a solemn ceremony at Durbar Hall in Government House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan). At precisely 10:18 a.m., India was declared a Sovereign Democratic Republic, and six minutes later, Dr. Rajendra Prasad took his oath as the first President of India. A 31-gun salute followed the announcement, reverberating across the capital.
Later in the afternoon, President Prasad made a grand procession in a refurbished 35-year-old carriage pulled by six Australian horses, escorted by his bodyguard. Crowds lined the streets, cheering and chanting “Jai” as the President made his way to the Irwin Amphitheatre.
The venue, adorned beautifully for the event, accommodated 15,000 spectators. The celebration featured a magnificent military parade comprising 3,000 personnel from the armed forces and police, accompanied by seven massed bands. Units of the armed services and regiments brought color and precision to the event, symbolizing the new Republic’s unity and strength.
President Prasad’s speech, delivered in Hindi and English, highlighted the unity of India under a single Constitution, emphasizing the collective responsibility for the welfare of its 320 million citizens. The day was truly a historic milestone for India, celebrated with grandeur and pride.
