The Republic Day celebration gets culminated with the 21-gun salute after the Republic Day Parade. But do you know why 21 gun salutes are given to honor the President of India on Republic Day, Independence Day, or other occasions? Are the shells real? Here is the story of giving 21 gun salutes.
The story of 21 gun salutes
The tradition of giving salutes with cannon and guns has been in the Army. The 21 gun salute is considered the highest honor of the country. This salute is given during Independence Day, Republic Day or in honor of the country's supreme leader. The headquarters of this traditional regiment is in Meerut and it has about 122 soldiers. However, this is not a permanent regiment. As soon as this regiment shifts to another place, another regiment takes its place.
Salute is given by only 8 cannons not 21 cannons
Do you know that the salute is given through 21 shells but there are only 8 cannons. 7 of these cannons are used to give the salute. So every cannon fires 3 shells.
Is the shell fired from the cannon real?
Many people wonder if the shell fired during the 21-gun salute is real or fake? In fact, the shell to be released from this cannon is made of a special type. It is called Special Ceremonial Cartridge. Which is blank or empty. It only makes smoke and noise. It does not cause any harm.
2.25 seconds per fire
Do you know what is the time of firing a shell from one cannon? It is 2.25 seconds. In fact, there is also a purpose behind it. Our national anthem ends in 52 seconds and the 21-gun salute will also end in 52 seconds with 2.25 seconds.
The 21 gun salute is a symbol of respect and honor. It is given to the President of India, the Supreme Commander of the three armed forces, and other dignitaries.
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