Republic Day Parade 2025: A celebration of India’s heritage, might, and diversity

- January 26, 2025
| By : Patriot Bureau |

One of the highlights of the event was the “Tree of Knowledge” tableau showing children excelling in various fields such as robotics and medicine

The 76th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path showcased the essence of India through 31 vibrant tableaux representing states, Union territories, central ministries, and organisations. A symbolic confluence of Virasat (heritage) and Vikas (progress) was reflected in the diverse themes celebrating culture, technological advancements, and achievements.

The grand parade, attended by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the chief guest, exemplified India’s military prowess, cultural richness, and progressive spirit.

The parade at Kartavya Path highlighted India’s unity in diversity, cultural heritage, and progressive journey. From the spiritual essence of Haryana to the eco-friendly artistry of Andhra Pradesh, the empowerment initiatives of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, and a magnificent cultural performance, the parade was a true reflection of India’s vision and values. Here are the key highlights.

Delhi: A hub of education and innovation

Delhi’s tableau highlighted its advancements in education and technology. It showcased children excelling in various fields, a “Tree of Knowledge” emerging from a laptop, and progress in robotics and medicine.

Madhya Pradesh: Celebrating wildlife conservation

The tableau from Madhya Pradesh honoured the reintroduction of cheetahs in Kuno National Park, depicting thriving wildlife, conservation efforts, and Sheopur’s cultural heritage through a traditional Lehangi dance.

Uttar Pradesh: Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj

The tableau from Uttar Pradesh highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. It depicted scenes from the Samudra Manthan myth, the Amrit Kalash, and technological advancements for crowd management at the sacred Sangam.

Chandigarh: Focus on sustainability

Chandigarh’s tableau blended heritage with sustainability, showcasing sculptures from the Japanese Garden and Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, alongside floating solar panels at Dhanas Lake.

West Bengal: Women’s empowerment and folk arts

The tableau from West Bengal emphasised women’s empowerment and cultural preservation through schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar and Lok Prasar Prakalpa. A Durga idol in Chhau attire celebrated the state’s artistic heritage.

Tripura: Spiritual and artistic traditions

Tripura’s tableau paid tribute to Kharchi Puja, showcasing bamboo craftsmanship and the worship of 14 deities, reflecting the state’s spiritual and artistic legacy.

Karnataka: The cradle of stone craft

Karnataka’s tableau highlighted Lakkundi’s architectural heritage with depictions of the Brahma Jinalaya and Kashi Vishweshwara temples, showcasing Chalukya-era excellence in stone craft.

Goa: A blend of art, tradition, and tourism

Goa’s tableau celebrated Kaavi art and the Diwaja festival. It depicted women carrying earthen lamps during the ceremony and the historic Fort Aguada lighthouse, blending tradition and tourism.

Haryana: Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita

Haryana’s tableau highlighted the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings, the sacred site of Jyotisar, and the state’s industrial, cultural, and sporting achievements, including its contribution to India’s Olympic successes.

Andhra Pradesh: Crafting eco-friendly wooden toys

Andhra Pradesh showcased its 400-year-old tradition of Etikoppaka Bommalu, eco-friendly wooden toys made from Ankudu wood, symbolising sustainability and artistry.

Uttarakhand: Adventure and art

Uttarakhand’s tableau celebrated Aipan art and adventure tourism, featuring activities such as trekking, bungee jumping, and hill cycling, highlighting the state’s natural beauty.

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu: Coastal culture and conservation

This tableau focused on sustainable fishing, eco-tourism, and the Walk-in Bird Aviary at Daman. A Machi folk dance celebrated the region’s coastal traditions

Also Read: Republic Day: President Murmu unfurls national flag at Kartavya Path

The tri-services tableau, themed “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat” (Strong and Secure India), illustrated the battlefield synergy of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It featured Indigenous military assets like the Arjun tank, Tejas MKII, and INS Visakhapatnam, underscoring India’s defence modernisation and jointness among services.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development celebrated women’s empowerment with a tableau titled “Motherhood, Life Cycle Continuum Approach, and Women-Led Development.” It depicted flagship schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Poshan Abhiyaan, alongside visuals of empowered women excelling in various professions.

Also Read: A timeless spectacle: Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path

The Central Public Works Department commemorated 75 years of the Constitution of India with a flower-crafted tableau featuring the Ashoka Chakra and the Constitution, symbolising unity, equality, and progress.

Ministry of Women and Child Development: Women-led development

The Ministry of Women and Child Development’s tableau, themed “Motherhood, Life Cycle Continuum Approach, and Women-Led Development,” depicted the journey of women and children as pillars of national growth.

The tableau’s forefront featured a mother cradling her child, symbolising care and nourishment. The middle section portrayed the life cycle continuum of a girl child, showcasing her transition from childhood to an empowered woman excelling in various fields.

Highlighting initiatives such as Poshan Abhiyaan, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), and Saksham Anganwadis, the tableau celebrated empowerment, safety, and holistic development. A police van and a robust helpline system underscored the government’s commitment to women and child welfare, with the message: “An empowered woman is the backbone of a strong nation.”

A floral tribute by the Indian Air Force

Adding grandeur to the celebrations, Mi-17 IV helicopters of the Indian Air Force’s 129 Helicopter Unit showered flower petals along Kartavya Path. Flying in a ‘dhwaj formation,’ the choppers carried the National Ensign along with service flags of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.

Cultural extravaganza: A tribute to India’s Heritage

The Republic Day parade featured an 11-minute cultural performance titled “Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam,” curated by Sangeet Natak Academy. Over 5,000 folk and tribal artists performed 45 traditional dance forms representing the rich and colourful legacy of India’s artistic heritage.

The performance, a tribute to the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, celebrated themes of “Viksit Bharat,” “Virasat bhi Vikas bhi,” and “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” With lyrics by Subhash Sehgal and music by Shankar Mahadevan, the dancers used authentic costumes, jewellery, and props, enriching the visual spectacle.

For the first time on Republic Day, the performers covered the entire stretch of Kartavya Path, ensuring an inclusive viewing experience for all guests.