India marked its 76th Republic Day with a display of unity, heritage, and military might as President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path on Sunday. The ceremony commenced with the national anthem, accompanied by a thunderous 21-gun salute delivered using the indigenously developed 105-mm Light Field Guns.
The celebrations were graced by Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, this year’s chief guest, who shared the ceremonial spotlight with President Murmu. Both dignitaries arrived at the venue in a historic ‘traditional buggy,’ a practice revived in 2024 after a hiatus of four decades. Their arrival was escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the oldest and most prestigious regiment of the Indian Army.
The flag-hoisting ceremony was executed with precision by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini. Following the unfurling, the ceremonial battery of the 172 Field Regiment presented the 21-gun salute, symbolising India’s growing self-reliance in defence technology.
The parade on Kartavya Path opened with a captivating performance by 300 cultural artists playing Sare Jahan Se Achha on a range of traditional instruments. This vibrant display included the Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Mashak Been, Ransingha, Thavil, and others, showcasing India’s cultural diversity and resonating with the hopes of over a billion citizens.
Param Vir Chakra recipients Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), alongside Ashok Chakra awardee Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd), were honoured during the parade. These gallantry awards, symbols of extraordinary courage and sacrifice, were proudly highlighted as part of the celebrations.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to India’s fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial. This solemn act marked the beginning of the day’s commemorative events. Following this, the Prime Minister joined other dignitaries at the saluting dais to witness the grand parade.
In a move to promote inclusivity, approximately 10,000 special guests were invited to the parade. These invitees, hailed as the architects of a ‘Swarnim Bharat,’ included achievers from various fields and beneficiaries of government initiatives, emphasizing the theme of Jan Bhagidari (public participation).
For the first time in Republic Day history, a tri-services tableau highlighted the theme of jointness among India’s armed forces. Titled Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat (Empowered and Secure India), the tableau depicted a Joint Operations Room symbolising the synergy and coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Republic Day festivities will conclude on January 29 with the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk, a ritual steeped in history. During this event, military bands will exclusively perform Indian tunes, a nod to the nation’s cultural and musical heritage.
Also Read: A timeless spectacle: Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path
The 76th Republic Day celebrations stood as a testament to India’s unity, resilience, and aspirations for a brighter future, blending tradition with modernity on the nation’s grandest stage.
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