- विज्ञापन -
New Delhi: On January 26, President Droupadi Murmu led the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, where she unfurled the national flag and commemorated this significant occasion.
Joining her was Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, this year’s Chief Guest. In a revival of a long-discontinued tradition, both leaders were escorted to Kartavya Path by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army, arriving in a traditional buggy that added a touch of regality to the event.
Upon their arrival, they were welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also greeted Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife, Sudesh Dhankhar.
The national flag was raised amidst the playing of the National Anthem, followed by a majestic 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns. This year’s celebrations highlighted 75 years of the Constitution, emphasizing “Jan Bhagidari” (public participation) and showcasing India’s cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military prowess.
The parade commenced with 300 cultural artists performing “Sare Jahan Se Achha” using various traditional instruments, including Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Mashak Been, Flute, Sankha, Tutari, and Dhol, resonating with the aspirations of a billion Indians. The event concluded with a stunning flower-petal shower from Mi-17 1V helicopters in the Dhwaj Formation, symbolizing the national flag, led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.
The parade, commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, began with the President taking the salute. Major General Sumit Mehta served as the Parade Second-in-Command.
Gallantry award winners, including Param Vir Chakra recipients Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), as well as Ashok Chakra recipient Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd), led the parade. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded for extraordinary bravery against the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra honors acts of valor not involving direct combat.
Adding an international element to the ceremony, the Marching Contingent of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, consisting of 152 members, along with the Military Band from Indonesia’s Military Academy, featuring 190 musicians, also participated in the parade.
