A timeless spectacle: Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path

- January 24, 2025
| By : VIVEK SHUKLA |

The Republic Day parade, which finds its roots in the raj, now symbolises the modern India and showcases the nation's culture, unity and diversity

ON DISPLAY: The Delhi tableau during the 2020 Republic Day Parade. (Photo: Getty Images)

As preparations for Republic Day are in full swing, the two-kilometre-long Kartavya Path remains closed to the public. Formerly known as Rajpath, Kartavya Path holds a central place in the Republic Day celebrations. Built by the British as a ceremonial avenue leading to the Viceroy’s House (now Rashtrapati Bhavan), it symbolised colonial power. Today, it stands as a testament to India’s journey from colonialism to independence.

“The renaming to Kartavya Path (Path of Duty) in 2022 signifies a shift from colonial symbols to an emphasis on the duties and responsibilities of citizens towards the nation. This renaming aligns with the new India’s aspirations and emphasises the importance of civic duty and nation-building,” said noted Mumbai-based author Vimal Mishra.

The parade, set against iconic landmarks like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan, reflects the enduring ideals of the Republic and its foundational values.

Tracing the evolution of the Republic Day parade

The Republic Day celebrations have evolved significantly since the first event in 1950. Senior Congress leader and veteran politician Karan Singh, who unfurled the Indian flag in Jammu on January 26, 1950, was barely 21 then and shares his memories fondly.

“I moved to Delhi in 1967 as a union cabinet minister. Since then, I have participated in the Republic Day celebrations here in the capital. On January 26, 1950, Delhi’s weather was extremely pleasant. After days of cloudy skies, the sun finally made an appearance,” he recalled.

Singh will watch the Republic Day parade from his home in Chanakyapuri. If it isn’t too cold, he might also go to Kartavya Path to enjoy the parade.

Idris Hasan Latif and Karan Singh

The tradition of the parade as we know it today began in 1955. Initially held at venues such as the National Stadium, Red Fort, and Ramlila Maidan, the parade gradually expanded to include tableaux, and stunts by soldiers and paramilitary forces.

Brigadier Chitranjan Sawant, who provided commentary on the parade from 1980 to 2023, noted, “The tableaux used to captivate the audience, and war heroes, honoured with the Victoria Cross and other medals, were met with loud cheers. The stunts performed by soldiers on motorcycles made spectators brim with pride.”

The first flypast

A key highlight of the first Republic Day parade in 1950 was the spectacular flypast led by Idris Hasan Latif, later the Air Chief Marshal of the Indian Air Force. Then a Squadron Leader, Latif and his companions piloted Hawker Tempest fighter jets that took off from Ambala.

For the first time, Delhi witnessed fighter planes performing acrobatics in its skies, leaving the audience mesmerised. A road near Delhi Cantt’s parade ground, named Latif Road, commemorates his contribution.

Public access and changing times

In earlier decades, the public could easily access Kartavya Path during the parade. “Before the era of terrorism in Punjab, common people used to reach Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) easily. There was only a symbolic presence of the police. There used to be vendors too. But after the rise of terrorism, a lot changed,” famous commentator late Jasdev Singh had once said. Late Singh narrated the Republic Day event for decades.

Security measures tightened, and today it’s not as easy for the public to gather freely. Singh also recalled, “Until 20–25 years ago, people would arrive at Kartavya Path by 4 or 4:30 AM in the morning to secure a spot.” Despite these changes, the parade continues to attract thousands who brave Delhi’s chilly January mornings.

Bravery award winners

Since 1959, children receiving bravery awards have been an integral part of the parade. They march proudly, saluting the President as the crowd cheers. These young heroes, once parading on elephants, now ride in open jeeps. They arrive in Delhi ten days before the parade to participate in rehearsals and become part of this iconic event.

Memorable guests: Nelson Mandela and Muhammad Ali

The parade has hosted numerous dignitaries, but Nelson Mandela and Muhammad Ali hold a special place in its history. Mandela, the chief guest in 1995, was warmly received, while Ali, a special guest in 1977, captivated the audience.

Muhammad Ali at Jama Masjid, Delhi, 1980
Muhammad Ali at Jama Masjid, Delhi, 1980

At the height of his career, Ali waved his fists playfully in the air, prompting cheers from the crowd. Even Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was seen smiling as the legendary boxer acknowledged the adulation.

The allure of tableaux

Tableaux have been a major attraction since the parade’s inception. Initially focused on social and public welfare schemes, they have evolved to showcase diverse themes, such as the Green Revolution (1965), adult education (1978), and the Kargil War (2000). Goa’s vibrant tableaux have consistently been a crowd favourite.

Delhi’s tableaux, too, have made a mark, with notable themes including the life of Mahatma Gandhi (2019) and Metro Rail (2003 and 2006). These displays continue to reflect the nation’s progress and aspirations.

Changes to the parade route

Following the Parliament attack on December 13, 2001, the parade route was altered for security reasons. Since 2002, the parade has ended at Red Fort, bypassing Connaught Place. George Chew, a shoe showroom owner in Connaught Place, reminisced, “The festive atmosphere when the parade passed through Connaught Place was unmatched. People cheered from rooftops and streets, creating an electric environment.”

A grand celebration of unity

The Republic Day parade remains a grand celebration of India’s unity, diversity, and resilience. Are you planning to join the thousands at Kartavya Path this January 26 and be part of this timeless spectacle?