The country is all set to celebrate the 69th Republic Day of India on January 26, Friday. One of the three national festivals other than Independence Day on August 15 and Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, Republic Day is commemorated to honour the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. This day holds great importance for the citizens as India became an independent republic with a democratic government system in place. It is a matter of pride for us as we join in Republic Day 2018 celebrations. From sending SMS, GIF image greetings to keeping statuses on Facebook and WhatsApp, people can wish Happy Republic Day 2018 with our collection of patriotic quotes and messages.

India became an independent nation after almost 200 years of struggle on August 15, 1947. They acquired the status three years later on January 26, 1950, when the Constitution of India under Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was introduced. The President of India addresses the country on the eve of Republic Day apart from unfurling the Indian National Flag (Tiranga) as a part of grand celebrations.

Ram Nath Kovind, the 14th Indian president will take the military salute during the R-Day parade held at the Rajpath in the national capital, New Delhi. For the Republic Day 2018 celebrations, Ram Nath Kovind will be joined in by leaders from 10 ASEAN countries (Association of South East Asian Nations). For the first time in the history of R-Day celebrations, ASEAN Flags will be displayed along with the Indian National Flag (Tiranga). The flag-hoisting ceremony will be followed by grand parades performed as a tribute to country’s motto of unity in diversity and its rich cultural heritage.

Country’s freedom came at a price, a price paid in blood by hundreds and thousands of our brave souls. The great political leaders then sweated out in drafting the Constitution and give us the much-needed identity, fundamental rights and also safeguard our interests. In the fast-changing times, it is important for us to truly understand the significance of these national days and not a date in calendar indicating it to be a holiday. This Republic Day, let’s actually mean all the words sent in greetings and wishes.

WhatsApp Message reads: India is the song we must sing. India is the dream we must realize. Happy Republic Day.

WhatsApp Message reads: We the people. We are India! Happy Republic Day.

WhatsApp Message reads: It's time we invest in soul connect with our nation.

Happy Republic Day.

WhatsApp Message reads: Rocky terrains, mesmerizing hills, enchanting beaches, enthralling deserts, pristine backwaters and wonderful people. India as we know it! Happy Republic Day.

WhatsApp Message reads: May our actions demonstrate our love for the nation. Happy Republic Day.

WhatsApp Message reads: Let us fuel our desire to win, let us energise every part of our country. Happy Republic Day.

WhatsApp Message reads: Recalling and Rejoicing in the victory of our freedom fighters on this 69th Republic Day. Best wishes to all. Vande Mataram! Happy Republic Day 2018.

As the country readies to celebrate the 69th Republic Day, let us do our bit in respecting the Constitution of India, the supreme law of the country. Use the aforementioned list of Republic Day messages and quotes to not just for wishes but also spread the true meaning of patriotism. Happy Republic Day 2018!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 25, 2018 01:53 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).