India marked its 76th Republic Day today with a grand parade along the iconic Kartavya Path, showcasing the country’s military prowess, cultural heritage, and technological advancements. This year’s celebrations were particularly special, commemorating the platinum jubilee of the enactment of the Indian Constitution.
The occasion was graced by Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, who attended as the chief guest. A 352-member Indonesian marching and band contingent also participated in the parade, symbolizing the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
Sharing the glimpses from the Republic Day Celebrations 2025, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi remarked it as a vibrant display of India’s unity in diversity. He added that the magnificent parade showcased cultural heritage and military prowess.
In separate posts on X, Shri Modi said, ‘Glimpses from the Republic Day Celebrations 2025… A vibrant display of India’s unity in diversity. The magnificent parade showcased cultural heritage and military prowess. The vibrant tableaux represented the rich traditions of our states. It was truly a memorable morning at Kartavya Path. Here are more glimpses…’
The day began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the nation in paying homage to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial at India Gate.
Highlights of the 76th Republic Day Parade
- President Droupadi Murmu took the salute as the parade began, with nearly 10,000 special guests witnessing the grand spectacle.
- A total of 31 tableaux, including 16 from states and Union Territories and 15 from central ministries and organizations, rolled down Kartavya Path under the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’, celebrating India’s golden heritage and progress.
- Cutting-edge defence platforms were on full display, including the BrahMos missile, Pinaka rocket system, Akash air defence system, and the debut of the Army’s Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’ and DRDO’s ‘Pralay’ tactical missile. Other highlights included T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tanks, Sarath infantry vehicles, and the Nag Missile System.
- In a first, the armed forces presented a joint tableau, symbolizing unity among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The DRDO’s tableau, themed ‘Raksha Kavach’, highlighted India’s advancements in multi-layered defence systems.
- Leading the mounted column was the historic 61 Cavalry, the world’s only serving horsed cavalry regiment. Veteran women officers from all three services further exemplified Nari Shakti on this momentous occasion.
- The Corps of Signals’ motorcycle team thrilled the audience with breathtaking stunts, a crowd-favorite tradition.
- The grand finale featured a spectacular flypast by 40 Indian Air Force aircraft, including C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster, Su-30 fighter jets, and three Dornier aircraft from the Indian Coast Guard.
- Over 5,000 artists showcased India’s cultural diversity, with a group of 300 musicians playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ on instruments representing various regions of the country.
- Delhi was under a six-layered security cover, with over 70,000 police personnel and 70 companies of paramilitary forces deployed. Anti-drone systems, rooftop snipers, and more than 2,500 CCTV cameras with facial recognition technology ensured the smooth conduct of the event. Traffic restrictions and restricted access to over 200 buildings along the parade route further strengthened the security framework.
- As India celebrated its 76th Republic Day, the grandeur of the parade, the display of unity and strength, and the rich cultural performances reaffirmed the nation’s pride in its heritage and its vision for the future.
