Rendered in honour of the President of India — the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces — the salute represents the highest form of military respect and, by extension, pays tribute to the sovereign Republic
President Droupadi Murmu salutes during the 75th Republic Day function. File pic
The National Salute, popularly known as the 21-gun salute or ‘Ekees Topon ki Salami’, remains one of the most revered and symbolic rituals of India’s Republic Day celebrations. Rendered in honour of the President of India — the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces — the salute represents the highest form of military respect and, by extension, pays tribute to the sovereign Republic.
At its core, the National Salute symbolises the authority of the Constitution and the supremacy of the people in a democratic republic. Unlike monarchies or colonial regimes, the President embodies the collective will of citizens, making the salute a reaffirmation of democratic equality rather than individual power. It also reflects peaceful intent, unity and the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to uphold the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
The ceremonial firing of 21 blank rounds is synchronised precisely with the playing of the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, which lasts approximately 52 seconds. The thunderous yet measured booms are not a display of military aggression but a ceremonial expression of respect and pride. Each round serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to secure India’s freedom and the resolve required to protect it.
Republic Day 2026: History and evolution of the National Salute
The origins of the 21-gun salute can be traced back to 17th-century European naval traditions, when warships entering foreign ports fired empty cannons to signal peaceful intentions. Over time, 21 emerged as the international standard for honouring heads of state and high dignitaries. In colonial India, the British adapted the practice to rank princes, officials and viceroys, often reserving higher gun counts, such as 31, for the highest authorities.
After Independence, the tradition was retained but redefined. On January 26, 1950, when the Constitution came into force and Dr. Rajendra Prasad assumed office as the first President, early ceremonies are believed, in some accounts, to have included a 31-gun salute. The practice was subsequently standardised to 21 guns to align with global republican norms, emphasise equality and move away from colonial hierarchies.
On Republic Day, the salute is fired immediately after the President unfurls the national flag at Kartavya Path. Delivered using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns with blank cartridges, it sets the tone for the parade, blending military precision with national pride while underscoring India’s journey from colonial rule to a sovereign, democratic republic.
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