Why Republic Day parade outshines Independence Day celebration

Republic Day on January 26 gets a grander official celebration than Independence Day on August 15 because of the distinct milestones each day marks, explains businesstoday.in. August 15, 1947, celebrates freedom from British rule, with the Prime Minister hoisting the flag at the Red Fort and addressing the nation. January 26, 1950, commemorates the enactment of India's Constitution, making the country a sovereign democratic republic.

The Republic Day parade is designed as a formal state ceremony showcasing military strength, cultural diversity, and constitutional identity, including tableaux from states and Union Territories and a foreign dignitary as chief guest, the outlet notes. January 26 also links to the 1930 Purna Swaraj declaration, when the Indian National Congress first demanded complete independence.