Republic Day Parade Highlights: 31 Tableaux, Elite Military Cavalries Shine On Kartvya Path In Delhi

By Fnf Correspondent | PUBLISHED: 26, Jan 2025, 17:46 pm IST | UPDATED: 26, Jan 2025, 17:46 pm IST

New Delhi: India celebrated 76th Republic Day on Sunday with the glamorous display of military prowess at New Delhi’s Kartavya Path. The celebrations featured 31 vibrant tableaux representing various states and ministries, accompanied by impeccably coordinated marching contingents from the armed forces. The event concluded with a spectacular fly-past, captivating the audience with a series of impressive aerial formations.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the Chief Guest at the event, attended the grand military parade and cultural performances alongside President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Cabinet members, and other dignitaries at Kartavya Path, the iconic boulevard in the national capital. The Republic Day parade also featured a 352-member marching and band contingent from Indonesia, adding to the occasion's grandeur.

The Ministry of Culture's Republic Day tableau highlighted India's rich cultural heritage with striking visuals, including an ancient Tamil musical instrument rotating on a symbolic Konark Wheel and a depiction of the 'Golden Bird,' symbolizing the nation's cultural legacy and economic progress. Ten digital screens along the sides showcased the country's diversity in performing arts, literature, architecture, design, and tourism. According to the ministry, the tableau aimed to inspire pride in India's heritage and encourage citizens to embrace a brighter future.

The military might took the center stage with tanks, missiles, rocket launchers, warplanes, surveillance systems, and advanced weapons making a eyeball grabbing display. A key attraction was the grand March Past by contingents of the Indian armed forces and allied services.

Advanced weaponry including the T-90 Tank (Bhishma), NAG Missile System, and BMP-2 Sarath was one of the highlight of the march. Other highlights included the BrahMos, Pinaka Multi-launcher Rocket System, Agnibaan Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher, Akash Weapon System, and the Integrated Battlefield Surveillance System. Vehicles like the All-Terrain Chetak, Light Specialist Bajrang, Infantry Mortar System Airawat, Quick Reaction Force Vehicles (Nandighosh and Tripurantak), and the Short-Span Bridging System were also on display.

As part of the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, a team of soldiers stunned the audience with breathtaking motorcycle stunts. 'The Dare Devils,' the Army's Corps of Signals Motorcycle Rider Display Team, showcased remarkable skill, teamwork, and bravery while attempting to set two world records.

Leading the fighter formation, Captain Dimple Singh Bhati made history by becoming the first woman officer of the Indian Army to salute President Droupadi Murmu while standing on a 12-foot ladder mounted on a moving motorcycle.

For the first time, the performance spanned the entire Kartavya Path, from Vijay Chowk to C Hexagon, ensuring a uniform viewing experience for all guests.