Every year on 26 November, India comes together to celebrate Constitution Day, also known as Samvidhan Diwas—a day dedicated to honouring the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1949. The occasion is not only a tribute to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and the members of the Constituent Assembly but also a national reminder of the core values—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—that define the world’s largest democracy.
Origins of Constitution Day: A Historic Moment
Constitution Day marks the momentous date 26 November 1949, when the Constituent Assembly formally adopted the Constitution after almost three years of debate, revisions, and drafting. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee, played the most prominent role in shaping this historic document, which came into full effect two months later on 26 January 1950, the day celebrated as Republic Day.
The Constituent Assembly held 11 sessions over 167 days, carefully discussing every clause. Their work resulted in what is now regarded as one of the most detailed and forward-thinking constitutions in the world.
Recognizing the importance of this milestone, the Government of India officially declared 26 November as Constitution Day in 2015, encouraging citizens, students, and institutions to commemorate the significance of the nation’s supreme law.
Why Constitution Day Matters Today
Constitution Day serves as an annual reminder that the Constitution is not just a legal document—it is the backbone of India’s democratic identity. It outlines the rights of citizens, the responsibilities of the government, the structure of institutions, and the aspirations of the nation.
The values enshrined in the Preamble continue to guide the country:
- Justice (social, economic, political)
- Liberty (of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship)
- Equality (of status and opportunity)
- Fraternity (ensuring dignity of the individual and unity of the nation)
On Samvidhan Diwas, schools, colleges, and public institutions across India read the Preamble together to reaffirm their commitment to these constitutional principles.
Read Also: What are the Fundamental Rights of Indian Citizens?
Constitution Day 2025: Key Highlights and Announcements
This year’s Constitution Day is especially notable due to several historic initiatives and events:
1. Release of the Constitution in Nine Regional Languages
As reported by The New Indian Express, the Government of India will release editions of the Constitution in nine additional Indian languages, including:
- Nepali
- Malayalam
- Marathi
- Punjabi
- Bodo
- Kashmiri
- Telugu
- Odia
- Assamese
This marks a major step in making the Constitution more accessible to Indians across linguistic backgrounds, strengthening the democratic principle of inclusiveness.
2. President Droupadi Murmu to Lead Celebrations
According to The Hindu, the main national event will be held in the iconic Central Hall of the old Parliament building—now renamed Samvidhan Sadan.
President Droupadi Murmu will lead the ceremony, which includes:
- The reading of the Preamble
- Speeches on constitutional values
- Recognition of initiatives promoting constitutional awareness
The Central Hall holds deep symbolic significance—it is the very place where the Constitution was debated, shaped, and adopted.
3. Digital Participation Across India
This year, lakhs of citizens are expected to join the online Preamble reading, hosted on platforms like MyGov and Constitutional awareness portals. Schools and colleges are also encouraged to organize quizzes, debates, and exhibitions centred on the Constitution’s history and relevance.
A Living Document: The Constitution’s Continuing Evolution
India’s Constitution remains a living, breathing text, evolving through amendments to meet changing societal needs. Over the decades, it has been shaped through landmark judicial interpretations, parliamentary debates, and public discourse.
Yet, its core vision has remained the same:
to build a just, inclusive, and democratic society where every citizen has equal opportunity and dignity.
Constitution Day encourages all Indians to revisit these ideals—not just in theory, but in everyday life.
How the Day is Celebrated Across India
Schools and Colleges:
- Special assemblies dedicated to the Constitution
- Preamble recitations
- Poster-making and essay competitions
- Speeches about Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and the Constituent Assembly
Government Departments:
- Awareness programmes
- Commitments to citizen-centric governance
- Reading of key constitutional excerpts
Public Initiatives:
- Online quizzes
- Webinars on constitutional rights and duties
- Cultural programs highlighting unity and diversity
Together, these activities strengthen constitutional literacy among citizens.
Celebrating the Spirit of India’s Democracy
Constitution Day is more than a commemoration—it is a celebration of India’s identity, unity, and democratic spirit. As the country grows and evolves, the Constitution remains its guiding light, ensuring that every citizen—regardless of language, culture, or background—has the right to participate in the nation’s progress.
By reflecting on its principles, learning its history, and practising its values, we honour not just the past but also the future of our republic.
On this Samvidhan Diwas, let us together reaffirm our commitment to democracy, diversity, and dignity for all.
