India is all set to celebrate its 76th Republic Day with unmatched fervor and pride as the Kartavya Path transforms into the epicenter of military grandeur and cultural brilliance. This year’s celebrations, themed “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Progress), commemorate 75 glorious years of the Indian Constitution and promise a spectacle of unity, progress, and tradition.
The grand event will feature 31 mesmerizing tableaus, with 16 representing diverse states and Union Territories and 15 from various central ministries and organizations. These tableaus will vividly portray the nation’s rich cultural heritage and developmental strides, bringing the theme of ‘Swarnim Bharat’ to life.
A Parade of Valor and Unity
The Republic Day parade, scheduled to begin at 10:30 AM on Sunday, will showcase the might and spirit of India’s Armed Forces. The parade will be led by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, a second-generation officer, with Major General Sumit Mehta serving as the Parade Second-in-Command.
President Droupadi Murmu will take the salute, preceded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tribute to martyrs at the National War Memorial. The parade will open with an enchanting performance by 300 cultural artists playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’, setting a patriotic tone for the day.
Military Prowess on Full Display
India’s military capabilities will be the highlight of the event, with cutting-edge defense platforms such as the BrahMos missile, Pinaka rocket system, and Akash missile system taking center stage. The parade will also witness the debut of Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’ and DRDO’s surface-to-surface tactical missile ‘Pralay’.
The formidable T-90 Bhishma tanks, Nag Missile System, multi-barrel rocket launcher Agnibaan, and light specialist vehicle Bajrang will roll down the Kartavya Path, demonstrating the technological advancements of the Indian Armed Forces.
For the first time, a Tri-service tableau will be featured, symbolizing the integration and joint strength of the Indian Armed Forces.
Cultural Extravaganza: A Celebration of Diversity
Adding a vibrant touch to the event, 5,000 artists will perform over 45 traditional dance forms in a breathtaking 11-minute spectacle. For the first time, this cultural performance will span the entire Kartavya Path, ensuring every guest experiences the nation’s artistic diversity.
Special Honors and Guests
This year, Param Vir Chakra awardees Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), along with Ashok Chakra winner Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd), will be honored for their exemplary service to the nation.
The event will also welcome Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the Chief Guest. Accompanied by President Murmu in the historic ‘Traditional Buggy’, President Subianto will oversee a ceremonial march past by the Indonesian National Armed Forces’ Marching Contingent and a performance by Indonesia’s Military Academy Band. This marks the fourth time an Indonesian President has graced India’s Republic Day celebrations, reinforcing the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
Facilitating ‘Jan Bhagidari’ with Special Guests
This year’s celebrations aim to promote public participation (‘Jan Bhagidari’) with 10,000 special guests invited from all walks of life. Enhanced facilities, such as free metro rides for invitees and ticket holders, have been arranged. Visitors using personal vehicles can access parking at Palika Parking, Connaught Place, and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with DTC ferry services providing convenient transport to the venue.
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