Tradition and discipline are the two fundamentals of the Indian Republic Day celebrations. Hundreds of events take place at the Republic Day Parade, one such event – the 21 Guns Salute may have got you wondering about its significance. Read on to satisfy your curiosity.
The 21 Gun Salute is part of India’s colonial heritage. This custom has its origins in the 17th century, when the naval forces at sea required the enemy to confirm peaceful intent by unloading its amunitions. A British vessel at the time was mounted with seven weapons to honor the biblical significance of the number 7, which is considered the number of perfection and completeness.
In a show of peaceful intentions, seven shells were fired in the sea from an approaching enemy warship. In answer, shore weapons, which had considerably more firepower, fired 3 shots for every shell fired by the warship. Thus tradition of the 21-Gun Salute came into existence. In time this form of salutation became the highest national honor, given to heads of states, presidents, and royalty.
At the Republic Day Parade, every year 21 cannons are fired at a gap of about 2.25 seconds during the singing of the National Anthem, to evenly punctuate the 52 second song with three successive rounds of 7 cannons each.
Quick Fact – On 30 January (Martyrs Day) the 7 guns are fired twice to pay respect for the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for their country.
