India is celebrating the 67th Republic Day this year. It is the commemoration of a historic moment when India's Constitution came into being on 26 January, 1950, an event that completed the country's long-sought transition towards a sovereign nation.
Celebrated with patriotism and enthusiasm , Republic Day is one of the three most important national holidays of India – the other two being Independence Day on 15 August and Gandhi Jayanti on 2 October.
This date, 26 January, was chosen to celebrate Republic Day for another reason as well. On this date in 1930, "Purna Swaraj" was declared by the Indian National Congress.
Every year, large military parades are held in New Delhi with representatives from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. At the same time, traditional dance troupes from across the country take part in the parade as well. Also, Republic Day marks the conferring of several gallantry and bravery awards, including Veer Chakra, Maha Veer Chakra, Param Veer Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Ashoka Chakra, to deserving candidates.
This year, French President François Hollande is the chief guest at the Republic Day parade and French soldiers will march with Indian troops during the R-day parade on Tuesday.
In other news, Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan reportedly will be attending a grand luncheon with the French President as she will be representing Indian cinema at the do.
Read more: 67th Republic Day 2016 quotes, wishes, messages and greetings to share
Check out the above slideshow of Republic Day picture messages to send to your friends and family.
