India's First Republic Day - 26 January 1950

First Republic Day Parade, 1950.

The Idea of Constituent Assembly for India was first put forward by MN Roy. In 1938, Jawaharlal Nehru on behalf of Indian National Congress declared that 'the Constitution of free India must be framed, without outside interference, by a Constituent Assembly elected on the basis of adult franchise'. After constituting the Constituent Assembly in Nov 1946 Constitution of India was passed by the majority its members on November 26, 1949. 
26 January was specifically chosen as the 'date of commencement' of the constitution of India because of its historical importance. It was on this day in 1930 that Purna Swaraj day was celebrated. 

And on 26 Jan 1950, Governor General C. Raja Gopalchari proclaimed India as the Sovereign Democratic Republic, thereby bringing into force India's new constitution. 

Before the ceremony, Dr Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the first President of India.

Source - rashtrapatisachivalay.gov.in

Honourable President Dr Rajendra greetings the citizens on the way to Irwin Stadium, New Delhi, in his state coach.

Unlike now, an open Baggi was used back then, instead of a bulletproof car.

India was declared a Republic and Dr Rajendra Prasad as the president with a 31-gun salute at Irwin Stadium.

President saluted the armed forces while taking a round at Irwin stadium and unfurled the national flag thereafter.

The chief guest at the first Republic Day parade was Indonesian President Dr Sukarno and his wife.

The First Republic Day Parade at Irwin Amphitheatre - there was no Jhakis during the performance only Armed Forces put on a show.

People eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse as the parade marched from Irwin Stadium to Red Fort.