New Delhi: India commemorated its 76th Republic Day on Sunday, January 26, with a vibrant display of military strength, cultural diversity, and national pride at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The celebrations marked the adoption of the Constitution in 1950 and reflected the country's journey as a republic.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest for the event, which featured participation from Indonesia’s military contingents. The parade also welcomed nearly 10,000 special guests, including Paralympians, sarpanches from high-performing villages, handloom artisans, and wildlife conservation workers, as part of the government’s initiative to enhance public participation in national events.

The day began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. President Droupadi Murmu then unfurled the National Flag, accompanied by the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.

The parade, commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar and his deputy Major General Sumit Mehta, featured gallantry award recipients, including Param Vir Chakra awardees Yogendra Singh Yadav and Sanjay Kumar, and Ashok Chakra recipient Jas Ram Singh. The Tri-services tableau, themed ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat,’ made its debut, showcasing a Joint Operations Room for enhanced coordination among the armed forces.

Cultural performances captivated the audience, with 5,000 artists from across the country performing 45 dance forms under the title ‘Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam.’ For the first time, the performance spanned the entire Kartavya Path, ensuring all attendees had an equal viewing experience.

The parade also highlighted the contributions of women in India’s armed forces. An all-women CRPF contingent, led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy, marched alongside an all-women band from the Delhi Police. A tableau dedicated to veterans paid tribute to their role in building a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ while retired women officers from the armed forces symbolised the increasing prominence of women in defence.

Military equipment and vehicles were prominently displayed, including the T-90 Bhishma tank, NAG missile systems, and the BrahMos missile, along with light specialist vehicles and quick-reaction force systems. The motorcycle display team, ‘The Dare Devils,’ performed thrilling stunts, including formations like the Human Pyramid and Bullet Salute, adding to the spectacle.

The fly-past by the Indian Air Force was a highlight, with 40 aircraft and helicopters showcasing formations such as Dhwaj, Trishul, and Vijay. The event concluded with a Vertical Charlie manoeuvre by a Rafale fighter jet, drawing applause from the spectators.

Tableaux from 16 states and union territories, as well as 10 central ministries and departments, brought the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ to life. Highlights included Uttar Pradesh’s depiction of Mahakumbh and Madhya Pradesh’s tableau showcasing the return of cheetahs to the state.

The event was a vivid celebration of India’s progress, unity, and rich cultural heritage, leaving an indelible impression on the thousands of attendees and viewers across the country.

BI Bureau