India celebrates Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) on November 26 every year to honour the adoption of the country’s supreme law. As the nation pays tribute to its makers, here are 10 fascinating and lesser-known facts about the Indian Constitution that are sure to intrigue every reader.
1. Adopted in 1949, implemented in 1950
The Constitution was officially adopted on November 26, 1949, but it came into force on January 26, 1950; the day India became a Republic. That’s why the nation celebrates both Constitution Day and Republic Day.
2. Created by a diverse assembly of 299 members
The Constitution wasn’t written by one person. It was drafted by a Constituent Assembly of 299 representatives, who debated every article for nearly three years.
3. Dr B. R. Ambedkar: The chief architect
While many contributed, Dr B. R. Ambedkar, the chairman of the Drafting Committee, is celebrated as the ‘Father of the Indian Constitution.’
4. Started with 395 Articles
When it came into effect in 1950, the Constitution had 395 Articles, 22 Parts and 8 Schedules. These numbers have grown with amendments over the decades.
5. One of the world’s longest constitutions
With several additions and changes, India’s Constitution is now one of the lengthiest written constitutions in the world; detailed, comprehensive and ever-evolving.
6. The original manuscript was handwritten
The original Constitution wasn’t typed, it was handwritten in elegant calligraphy by Prem Behari Narain Raizada. The pages were decorated by artists from Shantiniketan.
7. Signed by 284-299 members
Nearly 284 members of the Constituent Assembly signed the final document. Thousands of people also watched the debates from the visitors’ gallery at the time.
8. Fundamental Duties came much later
The Fundamental Duties that citizens follow today were added in 1976 during the 42nd Constitutional Amendment. They were not part of the original document.
9. Inspired by many countries
India’s Constitution is a blend of the world’s best ideas, from the British parliamentary system to American-style fundamental rights and Irish-inspired Directive Principles.
10. A living document celebrated nationwide
Constitution Day is observed to spread awareness about the Constitution, encouraging people, especially students, to understand their rights, duties and democratic values.
As India marks Samvidhan Divas, these facts remind us that the Constitution isn’t just a legal document, it’s the foundation of our democracy and the guiding force behind the world’s largest republic.
