India’s Constitution has always been more than a legal document; it is a living guide shaped by the dreams, struggles, and sacrifices of millions. On the occasion of the 75th Constitution Day, this guiding force took a major step toward greater accessibility and cultural representation. President Droupadi Murmu launched the digital version of the Constitution in nine Indian languages, an initiative that carries deep historical and emotional significance for the country. Unveiled at the Central Hall of the Old Parliament building, now known as Samvidhan Sadan, this moment marked a powerful renewal of India’s commitment to linguistic equality and democratic values.

A Milestone for Multilingual India

The Constitution was released digitally in Malayalam, Marathi, Nepali, Punjabi, Bodo, Kashmiri, Telugu, Odia, and Assamese. This release is not just a technical update; it reflects India’s cultural mosaic and the belief that every citizen should be able to understand the nation’s supreme law in their own language. For the first time in history, the Bodo and Kashmiri editions of the Constitution are being introduced, making the moment historic for communities that have long awaited representation at this level. The Punjabi edition has also been updated after nearly fifty years, offering a renewed and accurate version for the new generation. This initiative strengthens India’s identity as a nation woven together by its linguistic diversity. It acknowledges that laws and rights become meaningful only when people can read and understand them freely.

The President’s Message

Addressing the gathering at Samvidhan Sadan, President Murmu shared a powerful reflection on the legacy of the Constitution. She described it as a “guiding document to shun colonial mindsets and adopt nationalistic thinking,” reminding the nation that the Constitution is both a protective shield and a moral compass. Her words echoed the dreams of the Constitution-makers, who imagined a nation where democratic values, justice, liberty, and equality are accessible to all citizens regardless of language, region, or background. 

President Murmu also led the reading of the Preamble, a moment that brought together leaders and citizens in a unified collective expression of constitutional values. It was symbolic not only of remembrance but also of a renewed promise to uphold the principles laid down on November 26, 1949, when the Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution.

Honouring the Past, Connecting to the Present

The program also saw the release of the commemorative booklet, Art and Calligraphy in the Indian Constitution. The original Constitution is widely admired for its stunning illustrations, artistic flourishes, and handcrafted calligraphy. By revisiting its artistic roots, the booklet reminds citizens that the Constitution is not only a legal manuscript but also a cultural treasure, reflecting India’s rich heritage and creative excellence. The inclusion of the Constitution in the Nepali language holds special meaning as well. India and Nepal share centuries-old cultural, social, and spiritual ties, and this release ensures that Nepali-speaking communities both within India and across the border can access the document in a language close to their identity. It represents a bridge between nations, cultures, and people, grounded in mutual respect.

Bringing the Constitution Closer to the People

Beyond its ceremonial significance, this initiative has real, human impact. The Constitution shapes the everyday lives of citizens, yet millions of Indians have never read it simply because it was not available in the language they speak at home. A Constitution truly serves the people only when they can understand it fully, relate to it, and feel empowered by it. For a Bodo-speaking student in Assam, a Punjabi farmer in rural Punjab, a Kashmiri family in the Valley, or a Nepali-speaking community in the hills, this digital release bridges the gap between the people and the nation’s foundational document. It makes the Constitution more relatable, more understandable, and more accessible. It encourages a deeper understanding of rights and responsibilities, allowing citizens to engage with democracy in a more meaningful way.

Celebrating 75 Years of Constitutional Values

Constitution Day, celebrated annually on November 26, commemorates the day the Indian Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution in 1949. It came into effect two months later, on January 26, 1950, marking the birth of the world’s largest democracy. Over 75 years, the Constitution has guided India through times of progress, conflict, transformation, and reform. It continues to evolve, reflecting the aspirations of a nation that is constantly growing and learning. This year’s celebration was a reminder that the Constitution is not merely a historical text; it is a living document. Launching digital editions in multiple languages ensures that its lessons, rights, and ideals reach every corner of India. It reinforces the principles of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity—values that define India’s democratic soul.

A Step Toward a More Inclusive India

The release of the digital Constitution in nine Indian languages marks a transformative moment in modern Indian history. It honors the past, enriches the present, and shapes a more inclusive future. President Droupadi Murmu’s initiative symbolizes a deeper embrace of India’s linguistic diversity and democratic values. By expanding access to the Constitution, the nation takes a meaningful step toward empowering every citizen, strengthening national unity, and nurturing a more informed society. In making the Constitution available in more languages, India reaffirms a powerful truth: democracy thrives when every voice is heard, every culture is respected, and every citizen can understand the rights that belong to them.