The Indian national flag is hoisted on Independence Day, 15 August, and unfurled on Republic Day, 26 January. The two terms — “pull out” and “unfold” — are sometimes used interchangeably. However, there is a vast difference between the two.
“Raising” and “Developing” are proud traditions led by our national leaders every August 15 and January 26.
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Hoisting the flag means pulling the folded flag up from the bottom of the flagpole before opening it with one section of rope. It symbolizes India’s hard fought freedom and independence from the British.
Unfurling, however, involves opening the flag already tied at the top of the mast. It symbolizes the established republic (Republic Day) and India’s progress as a sovereign nation under its own constitution that came into effect in 1950.
On January 26, when India celebrates Republic Day, the President of India unfurls the national flag on Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath).
Credit: Ministry of Culture
The ritual reflects the fact that by 1950, India had already achieved independence and overcome colonial rule, Hindustan Times reported.
Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution, which formally established India as a sovereign democratic republic.
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Meanwhile, on Independence Day, which is celebrated on August 15 every year, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi. The act of hoisting symbolizes India’s hard-won freedom from British rule in 1947.
The ceremony, accompanied by a guard of honor and the national anthem, commemorates the birth of a free and independent nation.
Republic Day 2026
India celebrates its 77th Republic Day on Monday, January 26. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted and urged citizens to renew their commitment to ‘Viksit Bharat’.
In X’s post, PM Modi said, “Greetings to all countrymen on Republic Day. This national festival, symbolizing India’s pride and honour, should infuse new energy and enthusiasm and strengthen resolve for Viksit Bharat.”
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Republic Day, commemorated every year on 26 January, marks the day India adopted its constitution in 1950 and officially became a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic.
The day is of immense historical significance as it marks the culmination of India’s long struggle for independence and the establishment of constitutional governance based on justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
President Droupadi Murmu will preside over grand celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on the occasion.
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The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will attend this important occasion as chief guests.
The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will last approximately 90 minutes.
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According to a Defense Ministry release, it will feature an extraordinary blend of the 150-year heritage of the national song Vande Mataram, the country’s unprecedented developmental progress, strong military strength, vibrant cultural diversity and active participation of citizens from all walks of life.
(With input from agencies)
