PHOTOS

Republic Day 2023: Down Memory Lane, 10 Rare Unseen Photos of India's First R-Day Parade

Republic Day 2023: India's first Republic Day celebration was celebrated at the Irwin Stadium on 26 January 1950, which is today known as the National Stadium. During that time, there was no boundary wall in the stadium. The old fort was clearly visible from Irwin Stadium. Till the year 1954, the Republic Day celebrations were organized at different places. Republic Day celebrations were also organized at the Stadium, Kingsway (Rajpath), Red Fort and Ramlila Maidan. However, from the year 1955, Rajpath (Duty Path) was chosen for the Republic Day celebrations. Since then, Republic Day is celebrated here every year. Today, let's check 10 Rare Unseen Photos of India's First R-Day Parade.

Updated:Jan 26, 2023, 09:27 AM IST

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The last Governor General of India C Rajagopalachari

The last Governor General of India C Rajagopalachari (second from right) shakes hands with Air Marshall Sir Thomas Walker Elmhirst at India's first Republic Day Parade.

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First Republic Day Parade

The 3 defence services during a march at India's First Republic Day Parade at the Red Fort ground. The Parade covered a 24-km route, including Red Fort and Walled City areas.

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Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India

Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, photographed signing the Constitution of the Indian Republic

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Indonesian President Sukarno, chief guest of first R-Day

Chief guest Indonesian President Sukarno, at India's First Republic Day Celebrations in 1950.

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The first Republic Day Parade

The first Republic Day Parade outside Old Fort in New Delhi.

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January 26, 1950: First Republic Day

Army Chief KM Cariappa, Navy Chief Admiral Sir Edward Parry, Defence Minister Baldev Singh and Air Chief Marshal Sir TW Elmhirst during the first Republic Day celebration.

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Dr Rajendra Prasad, The first President of India

Dr Rajendra Prasad, The first President of India taking the salute from the armed forces.

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First President Dr Rajendra Prasad

President Dr Rajendra Prasad (in a horse-drawn carriage) prepares to take part in the country's first Republic Day parade on the streets of Delhi.

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India's First Republic Day

India's first Republic Day on January 26, 1950. Dr. B R Ambedkar – Father of Constitution of India (7th from the right), at India’s first Republic Day parade among other dignitaries.