The importance of 26th January 2024 and how India has come a long way since then

26th January marks a day of great significance in the history of India since it marks Republic Day. It is an auspicious occasion to commemorate the Constitution of India which was adopted on December 26, 1949, by the Constituent Assembly and came into effect on January 26, 1950. This day celebrates the spirit of Indian democracy as the country became a republic and citizens were given their rights. It also serves as a reminder to remember the immense contribution and sacrifices made by freedom fighters for our nation’s independence. In this blog, we take this moment to pay homage to our freedom fighters and acknowledge their work by revisiting their legacy through books about them or on topics related to freedom.

Republic Day in India is celebrated with immense joy and jubilation throughout the country, honoring the significance of India’s constitution and its status as an independent nation. Schools and colleges mark the occasion by hoisting the national flag. Cultural events commemorating India’s struggle for independence are organized nationwide, with the President of India hoisting the national flag at India Gate in New Delhi. The prestigious parade on Rajpath, coordinated by the Ministry of Defence and conducted by the Indian President, showcases India’s military prowess and diverse culture. The event pays homage to those who sacrificed their lives for the country, with the Prime Minister honoring martyrs at India’s Gate Amar Jawan Jyoti. The ceremony includes a 21-gun salute, the national anthem, and the hoisting of the national flag. Brave soldiers receive awards like Param Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Vir Chakra, while civilians displaying courage are also recognized. Gallantry award recipients salute the President in gratitude, followed by a display of Indian military prowess, including a march-past involving armed forces, police, and NCC. The celebrations, centralized in Delhi, culminate with the official end marked by Beating the Retreat. At 6:00 in the evening, government buildings are illuminated, the national flag is lowered, and the national anthem is sung, bringing the Republic Day festivities to a close.

Books And Republic Day

By reading these books, one can get a better understanding of India’s struggle for independence and its development since then. We will explore various categories such as biographies, historical fiction, essays, etc. that are written on or about aspiring revolutionists or Indian freedom fighters who have dedicated their lives towards ensuring justice for all Indians. Thus, let us begin by delving into some Republic Day books that have been written over time based on real-life stories, experiences or accounts of our nation’s brave soldiers.

History of 26th January and its significance in India

26 January 2024 marks the 75th year of the establishment of India as a sovereign republic. Every year, India celebrates Republic Day on this day to commemorate the momentous event that changed its status from a colony under the British Raj to an independent nation. The importance of this day is reflected in the celebrations held across India, with parades and performances depicting the culture and history of India. For many Indians, however, Republic Day also holds a special significance in terms of revisiting the legacy of freedom fighters through books about them.

These books offer readers a glimpse into the lives of some of India’s most prominent figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajendra Prasad and many more. These books are not only informative but also inspirational as they document not just strategic moves made by these great leaders but also their struggles and sacrifices. By understanding their journey and vision for an independent India, readers can develop an appreciation for their courage and dedication towards achieving independence.

Reading books about these leaders can be particularly insightful for young Indians born decades after independence was achieved. For many young readers, these books provide a platform to connect with history in a meaningful way that allows them to understand how great strides were made towards Indian Independence despite immense opposition. Moreover, reading these books also helps create a sense of national pride among citizens as it educates them on how far India has come in terms of progress over time. With such lessons instilled through literature, it is easier to understand why 26 January 2024 remains such an iconic day for every Indian citizen.

Books about freedom fighters that provide insight into their lives and struggles

The contributions of our freedom fighters during the Indian Independence Movement were invaluable and cannot be forgotten. Several books about freedom fighters provide a window into their life stories, motivations and struggles. Some notable books include Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, India, Bharat and Pakistan by J Sai Deepak, India Inc. By Vikas Pota and The India Way by S. Jaishankar

“Independence” by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a historical novel that tells the story of India’s independence movement through the eyes of three generations of women.

“India, Bharat and Pakistan” by J Sai Deepak is a non-fiction book that examines the partition of India in 1947 and its lasting consequences.

“India Inc.” By Vikas Pota is a business book that looks at the rise of Indian corporations and entrepreneurs in the global economy.

“The India Way” by S. Jaishankar is a collection of essays by India’s former Foreign Secretary that explores India’s place in the world and its unique approach to international relations.

All these books are, therefore, unique in themselves and are are amazing choice for reading this 26 January 2024.

Impactful stories from the books that showcase the spirit of freedom fighters

These books about freedom not only tell us about our past but also act as a reminder of our duty to protect our nation and its values. For instance, India After Gandhi by Ramachandra Guha takes readers through post-independence India’s journey from 1947 till the present day. It not only captures the history of the modern Indian state but also vividly narrates the successes and struggles faced by different persons during this period.

From biographies to fiction, many other Republic Day books can be read to understand the true spirit of our nation’s independence movement. Freedom Song: A Personal Story of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement by Mary King tells us how civil rights activists worked hard to bring social change in America while Rani Lakshmibai: The Story of an Indian Queen by Rushabh Sheth depicts the inspiring tale of courage and valour displayed by Rani Lakshmibai during 1857 revolt against British East-India Company.

The importance of revisiting the legacy of our freedom fighters through their books

By bringing together different perspectives on our past, we can get an even better understanding of the sacrifices made by the people who gave us independence on 26 January 2024. Their stories remind us that freedom is something that needs to be fought for and that it is worth standing up against injustice wherever it is found. This knowledge can further motivate us to strive for a just society in which all individuals enjoy equal rights and opportunities regardless of background or religion.

We should never forget the immense contribution made by our freedom fighters and continue to honour them every year on Republic Day. It is through reading about them in books that we can reconnect with their vision for a free India and use this as inspiration towards creating a better future for everyone in India. By revisiting these stories, we become more aware of how far we have come since independence and how far we still have to go in achieving true equality.