26th January 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state. On this day India became a totally republican unit. The other celebration is the 15th August which is called the Independence Day. The country finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous freedom fighters who fought for and sacrificed their lives for the independence of their country.  So, ever since, the 26th of January was decreed a national holiday and has been recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India.
26th January 2007 is also a day of great rejoicing at IVAC. At 9 am all the staff and guests were assembled to have a rising of the flag in presence of the senior management. The short ceremony was enhanced by the singing of the national anthem.
I was delighted to take cognizance of the President Abul Kalam message for the occasion. His speech he titled: ‘What can I give to the nation?†is well worth reading as he enumerates India’s achievements in a number of fields and gives the vision of the over a billion heads strong country in 2020.
It was also “fete†for me today. Marie Anne & Stephane arrived in the early morning from Montreal. They brought in with them a large box of chocolate & candies to be distributed to the therapists and hands of the center. It was our way to celebrate with them the India Republic day and be thankful for their services.