Observed annually on November 26 as Constitution Day, this day marks the adoption of the Constitution in 1949, a historic moment that envisioned a just, equal, and inclusive society.
It’s no secret that the Indian Constitution is the largest written Constitution in the world, but did you know this 500-page marvel isn’t typed?
Yes, it was entirely handwritten!
- The English version was meticulously penned by Prem Behari Narain Raizada, a calligraphy maestro who infused life into its letters, while the Hindi version was brought to existence by Basant Krishna Vaidya.
- Both versions were engraved with such precision that no corrections or overwriting exist in the original document.
Preserving the Legacy
The original Constitution is securely housed in the Library of Parliament House, kept safe in a helium chamber to prevent any damage.
Despite being over seven decades old, this document remains intact, a testament to the care and foresight of our founders.
The Founding Women
Often overlooked, 15 women were part of the Constituent Assembly that drafted this historic document.
Notable names include Durgabai Deshmukh, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, and Hansa Mehta, whose contributions ensured the Constitution reflected the ethos of gender equality and women’s rights.
A Mammoth Task
At the time of its adoption, the Constitution contained 395 articles spread across 8 schedules. Today, it has grown to include 448 articles, 12 schedules, and over 106 amendments, making it a living, evolving document.
Art Meets Law
The Constitution is more than just text – it’s an artistic masterpiece.
Each page of the original manuscript features intricate artwork inspired by the cultural heritage of India, created under the guidance of the legendary painter Nandalal Bose.
The Architect Behind It All
Of course, the heart and soul of this endeavor was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Constitution.
His vision of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity shines through every word, making this document not just a legal framework but a social beacon.
As India celebrates 75 years of adopting the Constitution, let’s not just remember the document but also the ideals it stands for.
The calligraphy, the helium chamber, the forgotten women – every aspect reminds us of the sweat and spirit that built the world's largest democracy.
This Constitution Day, let’s pledge to uphold the values of justice, equality, and fraternity, ensuring the legacy of our founding fathers continues to guide us. 🇮🇳
