Today is the 62^nd Republic Day of India. After the day of Independence (15Aug), The Republic Day 26^th January is one of the most important days in post-freedom Indian history. The day when Constitution of India came into action replacing Govt. of India Act 1935, an act imposed by then British rule.

Even though the Constitution of India was approved on 26^th Nov 1949, but it came into action only on 26^th January, 1950.

Like every year, also this year The Republic Day is being celebrated across the nation with zeal. Every Government and Private organizations and educational institutions commemorates the day of 26^th January with various cultural and traditional programs followed by Flag Hoisting ceremony.

Like any other Indian city, Udaipur also witnesses series of events on 26^th January, waking up early in this chilling winter, getting ready with ironed clothes and polished shoes is a very common routine of any school goers on this day.

I attended the Republic Day function at one of the oldest school in Udaipur where my mother obtained her early education. Mahila Mandal Senior Secondary Girl’s School is located in the city center; it has its own affluent historical background and importance to all those who are someway attached to this institution.

This 75 Years old educational hub had witnessed both pre and post freedom era and now the 21^st century. More Interestingly, The founders of Mahila Mandal School were a freedom fighter couple Late Mr. Daya Shankar Shrotriya and Mrs. Kamla Shrotriya. Their son Dr. Ganesh Shrotriya is an Executive President of Mahila Mandal.

Undoubtedly, patriotism is source of the foundation of Mahila Mandal School.

It is not just an educational center but also a home to nearly 200 tribal and destitute girls who hail from remote villages of Udaipur district. The school has strength of more than 500 students.

Mrs.Sajjan Katara, M.L.A, was the Chief Guest of today’s event, she came today not with her current political position but of her past childhood relation with Mahila Mandal. Mrs. Katara is ex-student and in her speech she credited this institution for whatever she is today.

There was nothing new today on occasion of 26^th January, like any other school they also had different ceremonies like the flag hoisting, parade, dance, speech and poetry but unlike most other institutes I felt a sense of simplicity and a scent of devotion in every student and teachers of Mahila Mandal.

I am thankful to authority and officials of Mahila Mandal including Exec. President Dr. Ganesh Shrotriya, Principal Mrs. Madhu Sarin and Secretary Vijay Kumar Sharma for letting me attend their event and more grateful for introducing me to such a great educational center.