President Droupadi Murmu led the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025. She unfurled the national flag, marking the beginning of the historic event. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who was the Chief Guest, accompanied her.
The two leaders arrived at Kartavya Path in the traditional “Buggy,” a custom revived after 40 years. The President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army, escorted them to the venue. Upon their arrival, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed both leaders, along with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife Sudesh Dhankhar.
The ceremony commenced with the national flag being unfurled, followed by the National Anthem. A 21-gun salute rang out, using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns, to honor the occasion.
This year’s celebrations focused on the 75th anniversary of the Constitution’s enactment, with an emphasis on “Jan Bhagidari” or public participation. The parade displayed India’s cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military strength.
The festivities began with 300 cultural artists performing “Sare Jahan Se Achha.” They played traditional instruments such as Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Mashak Been, Flute, Sankha, Tutari, and Dhol. The performance resonated with the hopes and pride of a billion Indians.
As the parade continued, Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit performed a flower-petal shower in the Dhwaj Formation, symbolizing the national flag. Group Captain Alok Ahlawat led this breathtaking display.
The parade, commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, began with the President taking the salute. Major General Sumit Mehta served as the Parade Second-in-Command.
Following this, gallantry award winners led the parade. Among them were Param Vir Chakra recipients Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), along with Ashok Chakra recipient Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd). The Param Vir Chakra recognizes the highest bravery in the face of the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra honors similar valour in non-combat situations.
To conclude the parade, the Marching Contingent of the Indonesian National Armed Forces participated. Additionally, the Military Band from Indonesia’s Military Academy, with 190 members, played a prominent role in this grand display of international camaraderie.
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