It’s Australia Day but it appears that we’re not the only ones being patriotic today.
I didn’t realise until I read this news article from BBC News that today is India’s Republic Day, celebrating the end of British rule in India back in 1950.
India obtained its independence on the 15th of August, 1947, but the Constitution of India only came into effect only on January the 26th, 1950. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first president of India following January the 26th, 1950.
I’m sure that there’ll be plenty of celebrations across India. The Indian people are very proud of their nation and they love a big occasion.
The main celebrations for the day will include a visit to India Gate in the nation’s capital, New Delhi. You can click on the photo in this post for a closer look at me at India Gate in February 2003 during my first visit to India. I’m the one in red surrounded by the media pack who were interviewing me following a bicycle ride from Agra to Delhi. You can see India Gate itself in the top left corner of the photo.
It’s been almost two years since my last visit to India. I dreamt about being in India again last night. I’d love to hop on a plane and head back there sometime but I have no idea when or if that might happen. I’ve mentioned to a few people that it’d be great to be in Delhi for the Commonwealth Games in 2010.
Posted by Rodney Olsen
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I think it would be wonderful to be in another country that celebrates on the same day – kinda like sharing a birthday with someone! I’m currently in Zambia, and they aren’t celebrating anythng particular today, so it’s up to me to make the most of it and get my household excited. Still, at least noone will get into a drunken brawl, I guess that’s an upside. 🙂
Thanks for the “heads up” Rodney. I have some Indian friends so I just sent them a “Happy Indian Republic Day” email!!
Happy Australia Day!
I?ve never had any desire to travel to India but it?s nice that you have enjoyed your travel there.
I’m a bit late but I did know it was A Day! How interesting that India, a country you love so much, has the same day as you!!!