The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, India extends its heartfelt wishes to all the people of the country on the occasion of its 73^rd Republic Day.

26 January is an important day and a historic milestone in India’s journey towards progress as a nation. It was on this day, in 1950, around two and a half years after gaining independence that India became a democratic republic.

India has the privilege of being the most populous democracy in the world and is home to people from different religions, ethnicities, cultures and languages.

In his 2012 address delivered at the German Military Headquarters in Koblenz, the Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad^aba said:

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself taught that the ‘Love for one’s nation is a part of faith.’ Thus, sincere patriotism is a requirement in Islam. To truly love God and Islam requires a person to love his nation. It is quite clear, therefore, that there can be no conflict of interest between a person’s love for God, and love for his country. As love for one’s country has been made a part of Islam.

In complete accordance with these words of their beloved leader, every Ahmadi Muslim residing in this country loves India and their fellow countrymen. They abide by the laws of their nation and always remain ready to offer their services for its progress in every possible manner.