New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu will lead the nation in celebrating Republic Day from Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Sunday.
But will she ‘unfurl’ or ‘hoist’ the national flag before other functions begin?
All those familiar with the English language obviously know the dictionary meaning of ‘hoisting’ and ‘unfurling.’ But very often, in the course of conversation, we tend to use the two words to mean the same thing when it comes to our Republic Day and Independence Day as if there is no difference.
The two terms, however, are very different and have starkly different meanings and symbolism:
On August 15, the flag is tied to the bottom of the pole. It is lifted up to the top and then hoisted to symbolise the struggle for independence while lifting it up the pole and then celebrating independence by hoisting it. (Hoist means to pull something up with a rope).
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While on January 26, India became an independent republic. So, the flag is already on top now, free from the clutches of years of foreign occupation. Thus the flag is tied to the top of the pole and not at the bottom as on August 15. Hence the flag is unfurled.
While the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi on Independence Day, this honour is reserved for the first citizen because at the time of Independence, the Constitution had not been adopted and the President, who is the constitutional head, had not taken office then.
The unfurling of the Tricolour at Rajpath in the national capital will be followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute.
Besides display of India’s vibrant culture, military strength, and rich heritage, the Republic Day celebrations this year will be extra special as it marks the platinum jubilee of the enactment of the Constitution and Jan Bhagidari.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is the chief guest this year, accompanied by a 352-member Indonesian marching and band contingent participating in the parade.
The march past will see 300 artistes playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ on musical instruments representing different parts of the country. Veteran women officers from all three services—Lieutenant Colonel Ravinderjeet Randhawa, Lieutenant Commander Mani Agarwal, and Flight Lieutenant Ruchi Saha—will represent Nari Shakti in the Kartavya Path parade, showcasing the pivotal role of women in shaping our armed forces.
A total of 31 tableaux, including 16 tableaux from states and Union Territories, and 15 from central ministries and organisations will roll down the Kartavya Path. Also on display will be BrahMos missile, Pinaka rocket system, and Akash air defence system while Army’s Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’ and the DRDO’s ‘Pralay’ tactical missile will make their debut.
