New Delhi is set to buzz with excitement as India prepares to mark its 76th Republic Day, showcasing its military prowess and rich cultural diversity on January 26. The celebrations will take place at the iconic Kartavya Path, where President Droupadi Murmu will lead the occasion, accompanied by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the chief guest. This year carries special significance as it commemorates 75 years since the adoption of the Indian Constitution, highlighting the nation’s commitment to democracy and diversity.
The Republic Day festivities will kick off with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the National War Memorial, where he will pay tribute to the fallen heroes of the nation by laying a wreath. Following this, the main parade will commence, featuring military displays and cultural performances, integrated under the theme of 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas' (Golden India: Heritage and Development).
Among the highlights of the parade will be impressive military showcases including cutting-edge technologies such as the BrahMos missile, the DRDO's tactical missile 'Pralay', and the Integrated Battlefield Surveillance System. These will demonstrate India’s advancements in self-reliance and technological innovation. This year's parade is also notable for featuring the tri-services tableau, which emphasizes collaboration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Visitors will witness 16 tableaux from states and union territories portraying India’s diversity, development, and heritage. Bihar’s tableau, returning after eight years, will focus on the region’s Buddhist heritage, including depictions of historical Nalanda University and representations of Lord Buddha. The rich cultural performance, aptly titled 'Jayati Jaya Mama Bharatam', will feature about 5,000 artists presenting over 45 dance forms.
Also making headlines is the return of the 'traditional buggy', which will escort the President and the visiting Indonesian leader, making its return after four decades. The parade will reflect on the shared democratic traditions between India and Indonesia, harking back to Indonesia’s President Sukarno's attendance at India’s first Republic Day celebrations back in 1950.
This year, for the first time, the parade will include participants from various backgrounds, including athletes, village leaders, and artisans, with approximately 10,000 special guests invited. Their presence symbolizes the importance of 'Jan Bhagidari' (people’s participation) in national events.
The sky above Kartavya Path will come alive as well with the 'Fly-past', featuring 40 Indian Air Force aircraft including Rafale and the Apache helicopter, showcasing India’s aerial strength and capability. All these performances will be integrated to not just entertain, but also instill national pride among citizens.
Security arrangements for the event are also heightened, with extensive measures put in place to safeguard attendees and participants. More than 70 companies of paramilitary forces and over 70,000 police personnel will be deployed across the capital to maintain law and order during the event.
Prime Minister Modi has expressed his admiration for the great personalities who contributed to the making of the Indian Constitution, stating, "Happy Republic Day. Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured our democracy is rooted in dignity and unity."
President Murmu is likely to address the nation, reflecting on the collective progress India has made since achieving republic status 75 years ago. The celebrations will underline India’s commitment to the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, as enshrined within its Constitution.
The vibrant tableau display, coupled with the military prowess evident during the parade, promises to create visually stunning scenes and emotional moments, as citizens across the nation join together to celebrate the spirit of India on this momentous occasion.
With all eyes set on Kartavya Path, India is ready to send forth a narrative of unity, progress, and cultural richness, as the nation prepares to mark one of its most significant national holidays with pride and grandeur.