Republic Day, observed every year on January 26, is one of India’s most significant national holidays. It commemorates the day in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect, officially transforming India into a sovereign democratic republic. While Independence Day on August 15 celebrates the country’s liberation from British rule in 1947, Republic Day highlights the adoption of a Constitution that established a government “by the people, for the people” and enshrined democratic values for all citizens.

This year, the nation will be celebrating the 77th Republic Day on Monday.