Experience the highlights of India’s 76th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path, showcasing cultural heritage, military prowess, and grand performances.
India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The event dazzled with vibrant tableaux, precision marching contingents, awe-inspiring performances, and a breathtaking fly-past. It was a vivid portrayal of India’s cultural richness and military strength
Table of Contents
A Grand Start to Republic Day 2025
The celebrations began with the arrival of President Droupadi Murmu and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was this year’s Chief Guest. They arrived in a traditional buggy escorted by the President’s Bodyguard. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to India’s fallen heroes at the National War Memorial, laying a wreath in tribute.
The National Flag was unfurled, followed by the National Anthem and a thunderous 21-gun salute, executed with 105-mm Light Field Guns—a symbol of India’s indigenous defense capabilities.
Cultural Extravaganza: Tableaux and Performances
The parade featured 31 tableaux from 16 states, Union Territories, and 10 central ministries, under the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Progress). Highlights included:
- Goa: Showcased its vibrant festivals and heritage.
- Uttar Pradesh: Depicted the grand Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, the largest spiritual gathering on Earth.
- Madhya Pradesh: Celebrated the reintroduction of cheetahs at Kuno National Park.
For the first time, a Tri-services tableau depicted a ‘Joint Operations Room’ with the theme ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’ (Empowered and Secure India), symbolizing the synergy among India’s Armed Forces.
Adding to the cultural showcase, 5,000 artists performed 45 dance forms in an 11-minute extravaganza titled ‘Jayati Jaya Mamaḥ Bharatam.’ This performance spanned the entire length of Kartavya Path, ensuring an immersive experience for all attendees.
Noida-Greater Noida Expressway Set for Revamp to Improve Traffic Flow and Safety
Military Prowess on Display
The Republic Day parade was a testament to India’s defense capabilities, featuring:
- Elite Contingents: Recipients of gallantry awards, including Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra winners, led the marching contingents.
- CRPF All-Women Contingent: A 148-member contingent, led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M, symbolized ‘Nari Shakti’ (women empowerment).
- Missile Systems: Displayed advanced systems such as BrahMos, Pinaka Multi-Launcher, Akash Weapon System, and Agnibaan Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher.
The ‘Dare Devils’ motorcycle display team of the Corps of Signals performed stunning stunts, including formations like Human Pyramid and Mercury Peak, enthralling the audience.
Veterans’ and International Contingents
A special veterans’ tableau, themed ‘Viksit Bharat ki Ore Sadaiv Agrasar’ (Always Advancing Towards a Developed India), honored the contributions of India’s military veterans. Female veterans from all three services, including Lt Col Ravinderjeet Randhawa, Lt Cdr Mani Agarwal, and Flt Lt Ruchi Saha, highlighted the pivotal role of women in shaping the armed forces.
The Indonesian Armed Forces contingent added an international dimension, marching alongside their military band, reflecting strong bilateral ties.
A Spectacular Fly-Past
The grand finale featured a fly-past by 40 aircraft and helicopters from the Indian Air Force, including:
- Fighter Jets: Rafale, Su-30, and Jaguar.
- Helicopters: Apache and Mi-17.
- Formations: Stunning aerial formations like Dhwaj, Ajay, and Vijay.
The event concluded with a Vertical Charlie maneuver performed by a Rafale fighter jet, leaving spectators in awe.
Enhanced Public Participation
This year, the government emphasized ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (public participation). Around 10,000 guests from various walks of life were invited, including exemplary performers and beneficiaries of government schemes, ensuring inclusivity in this national celebration.
Conclusion
India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations were a resounding success, blending cultural heritage with technological and military advancements. The event underscored the nation’s unity in diversity and its unwavering commitment to progress and security.
