January 26, 2025: India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with a grand parade along Kartavya Path, blending the nation’s military prowess, cultural diversity, and a tribute to women’s empowerment. The event was particularly momentous as it marked the platinum jubilee of the enactment of the Constitution, a milestone in the country’s democratic journey.

The day’s proceedings commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage to the nation’s fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. Soon after, the parade began with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute, as dignitaries, including Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, graced the occasion. The Indonesian leader attended as the chief guest, accompanied by a 352-member contingent that brought an international flair to the celebrations.

The parade featured 31 tableaux representing the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Progress). These vibrant displays showcased the cultural and developmental strides of India’s states, Union Territories, and central ministries. Adding to the spectacle, over 5,000 performers brought the route to life with a musical rendition of ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ and traditional dances from across the country.

India’s military might was on full display, with cutting-edge defence platforms such as the BrahMos missile, Pinaka rocket launcher, Akash air defence system, and the debuting ‘Pralay’ tactical missile. Tanks like the T-90 ‘Bhishma’ and the Army’s Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’ drew widespread acclaim, alongside other advanced weaponry and combat vehicles.

A defining moment of the parade was the participation of women veterans from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, symbolizing nari shakti and underscoring the increasing role of women in India’s defence forces. The iconic 61 Cavalry, the world’s only active horse-mounted regiment, added a touch of historical grandeur to the event.

Security was paramount, with Delhi placed under a six-layered security cover. Over 70,000 personnel, anti-drone systems, facial recognition-equipped CCTV cameras, and rooftop snipers ensured safety, while traffic restrictions facilitated the smooth flow of events.

The Republic Day parade of 2025 celebrated India’s strength, diversity, and progressive vision, weaving together the nation’s heritage and aspirations for a bright future.