Republic Day 2025: A Grand Parade Unites India
The 76th Republic Day Parade, held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025, showcased India’s rich cultural heritage and military prowess. Over 18 marching contingents, 31 tableaux, and more than 5,000 artists participated in the event. The parade commenced with President Droupadi Murmu unfurling the national flag, followed by salutes from Lt General Bhavnish Kumar, the parade commander.
A striking highlight was the participation of Lt General Bhavnish Kumar’s son, Lieutenant Ahan Kumar, who led the 61 Cavalry contingent, reflecting a generational continuation of military service.
The parade featured breathtaking aerial formations by Indian Air Force aircraft, daring motorcycle stunts, and performances by the country’s best Jawans and artists.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto served as the Chief Guest, marking the first time since 1984 that commanders arrived at Kartavya Path in the traditional horse-drawn buggy.
To ensure safety, over 70,000 police personnel were deployed across Delhi. The parade was attended by 10,000 special guests, representing various walks of life.
The Parade in Numbers
The 31 tableaux on the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ depicted the rich traditions of India’s diverse states and services. A tri-service tableau made its debut, emphasizing the unity and integration among the armed forces.
The parade showcased more than 5,000 artists performing along Kartavya Path for the first time, in an 11-minute cultural performance titled ‘Jayati Jaya Mamaḥ Bharatam’.
Live Streaming the Parade
People can enjoy the Republic Day Parade live from the comfort of their homes. Click here to watch Republic Day Parade 2025 live streaming.
The Significance of Republic Day
Republic Day commemorates the day when India’s Constitution came into effect in 1950, marking the nation’s transition to a republic.
Republic Day Parade Invocations
The parade kicked off at 10:30 am, beginning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the National War Memorial, where he laid a wreath to honor the nation’s martyrs.
All-Women Band Performs for Second Time
Delhi Police band, led by Band Master Ruyangunuo Kense, performed for the second consecutive year. The marching contingent, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Rishi Kumar Singh, honored the occasion with their presence.
Range of Missiles on Display
The parade featured a range of missiles, including the Tank T-90 (Bhishma); NAG Missile System with BMP-2 Sarath; BrahMos; Pinaka Multi-launcher Rocket System; Agnibaan Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher; Akash Weapon System; Integrated Battlefield Surveillance System; All-Terrain Vehicle (Chetak), Light Specialist Vehicle (Bajrang); Vehicle Mounted Infantry Mortar System (Airawat); Quick Reaction Force Vehicles (Nandighosh & Tripurantak) and Short-Span Bridging System.
India Gate Lit Up with Tricolor Lights
India Gate was illuminated with tricolor lights to mark the 76th Republic Day.
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Vladimir Putin Sends Congratulatory Note
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 76th Republic Day. He praised India’s progress in various fields and its respected status in the international arena.
Kerala’s Tribal King Attends Parade
Kerala’s Tribal King, Raman Rajamannan, attended the 76th Republic Day celebrations, marking the first time a Mannan community king participated in the Republic Day parade in Delhi.
31 Tableaux Represent India’s Diversity
Tableaux from 16 states and union territories and 10 central government ministries showcased India’s cultural heritage and military might, underlining the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’.
IAF’s Fly-Past Wows Audience
The IAF’s fly-past featured 40 aircraft/helicopters: 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft, and seven helicopters. The display engaged the audience with its spectacular aerial maneuvers.
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PM Modi Shares Republic Day Celebrations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared visuals of the Republic Day celebrations on X, giving his followers a glimpse into the grandeur of the parade.
Dare Devils Perform Dramatic Stunts
The Corps of Signals’ Motorcycle Rider Display Team, known as ‘The Dare Devils’, thrilled the audience with their breathtaking stunts, including formations like Bullet Salute and Human Pyramid.
Mamata Banerjee’s Message
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who attended the parade, expressed her commitment to India’s core principles of Sovereignty, Secularism, Democracy, and Federalism on X.
“The strength of our Republic is reflected in the strength of its people. May we always strive to protect and nurture the values that make India truly extraordinary.”
Shah Rukh Khan Salutes the Flag
Shah Rukh Khan posted a salutation on his Instagram account, sharing an image of himself honoring the national flag. He appealed for upholdance of the Constitution’s values.
“This Republic Day, let’s promise ourselves to contribute to an India that we can proudly pass on to the generations to come. Let’s uphold the values of the Constitution and hold our heads high with pride. Happy Republic Day and Jai Hind.”
BSF Performance at Attari-Wagah
The Border Security Force’s
