World
India
India is set to celebrate the 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, marking 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution. This annual celebration reflects the country’s unity, diversity, and progress, with the grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi being the centerpiece of the event. The parade will feature 16 state and union territory tableaux and 10 from various ministries and departments, highlighting the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Progress).
Let’s take a closer look at 10 remarkable showcases in this year’s parade, each representing a unique aspect of India.
1. 31 Tableaux presented along the way, including 16 States And Union Territories’ Tableaux
Tableaux representing 16 States/Union Territories (UTs) and 10 Ministries/Departments of the Union Government will be shown during the 76th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on January 26, 2025, with the overarching theme “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas.” As India marches into a magnificent future, these tableaus will highlight its many assets and its ever-evolving cultural inclusivity. The following are the specifics of the States/UTs that are participating:
1. Goa: A Celebration of Cultural Heritage
Goa’s tableau will highlight the rich cultural traditions of the state. Known for its vibrant festivals, music, and cuisine, the display promises to offer a glimpse into Goa’s unique heritage and charm.
2. Uttarakhand: The Land of Adventure
Uttarakhand will combine cultural heritage with adventure sports. This showcase will emphasize the state’s natural beauty and its reputation as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Haryana: The Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita
Haryana’s tableau will center around the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, a text that holds profound significance in Indian culture. This display will underscore the spiritual and philosophical essence of the state.
4. Andhra Pradesh: Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys
The tableau from Andhra Pradesh will feature Etikoppaka Bommalu, traditional eco-friendly wooden toys. These toys are a testament to sustainable craftsmanship and the creativity of the artisans.
5. Madhya Pradesh: The Land of Cheetahs
Highlighting its natural heritage, Madhya Pradesh’s tableau will showcase Kuno National Park, home to the cheetahs reintroduced to India. This display celebrates the state’s conservation efforts and biodiversity.
6. Tripura: Kharchi Puja
The northeastern state of Tripura will showcase Kharchi Puja, a traditional festival that worships 14 deities. This tableau will reflect the state’s deep spiritual roots and cultural practices.
7. West Bengal: Empowering Lives
West Bengal’s tableau will highlight government initiatives such as Lakshmir Bhandar and Lok Prasar Prakalpa, which empower lives and promote self-reliance. The display emphasizes social and economic development in the state.
8. Delhi: Quality Education for All
The national capital, Delhi, will present a tableau focusing on quality education. The display will emphasize the city’s strides in providing accessible and innovative educational opportunities.
9. Chandigarh: A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
Chandigarh’s tableau will depict a harmonious blend of heritage, innovation, and sustainability, reflecting the city’s unique identity and progressive outlook.
10. Ministry Highlights: Showcasing Government Initiatives
The parade will also feature tableaux from various ministries, including:
- Ministry of Tribal Affairs showcasing tribal development.
- Ministry of Women & Child Development focusing on women empowerment.
- Ministry of New & Renewable Energy emphasizing sustainability.
- Ministry of Culture highlighting India’s artistic legacy.
2. 1st ever tri-service tableau shows jointness among armed forces
Another first will be the tri-services’ combined tableau, which will represent the spirit of togetherness among the nation’s armed forces. ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’ (Strong and Secure India) will be the theme of the tri-services tableau. The ‘Raksha Kavach’ theme of the DRDO’s tableau will highlight multi-layered defense against threats from multiple domains. A tri-services tableau that will portray the spirit of “jointness” among the armed forces is one of several other firsts that will be shown during the parade. According to the defense ministry, the tableau would show a military scenario showcasing a coordinated action in land, water, and air using the Tejas fighter aircraft, the Arjun battle tank, and an advanced light helicopter.
3. 1 mounted column, 8 merchandise columns, 6 marching contingents of Indian army
Three Indian Coast Guard Dornier aircraft and forty Indian Air Force aircraft will participate in the flypast. According to officials, the Indian Army will be represented by six marching contingents, eight mechanized columns, and a mounted column. The 61 Cavalry will represent the column.
4. 2 Param Vir chakra awardees and 1 Ashok Chakra awardee participate in the Republic Day celebrations
The parade commander will be Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, while the parade second-in-command will be Maj Gen Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff (COS), Delhi Area. Major General Mehta informed PTI that one Ashok Chakra recipient and two Param Vir Chakra recipients, both Kargil war heroes, would participate in the procession.
5. 352 Member Marching and Band Contingent From Indonesian at Republic Day Parade
Adding an international dimension, a 352 marching and band from Indonesia will march alongside Indian forces. Their participation signifies the strong bilateral ties between India and Indonesia.
The Chief Guest for this year’s celebration is Prabowo Subianto, the President of Indonesia. This marks his first visit to India as President, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
6. 40 Indian Air Force aircraft in the flypast
A national salute and flypast including 40 Indian Air Force aircraft, including C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster, and MiG-29, as well as three Indian Coast Guard Dornier aircraft, will precede the 90-minute ceremonial march.
7. 5000 artists feature in cultural performance along Kartavya Chowk
In 2025, 5,000 artists will participate in a cultural performance at the Republic Day Parade. To guarantee that every visitor has the identical viewing experience, it will span the whole Kartavya Path between Vijay Chowk and C hexagon. “There will be 5000 cultural artists, earlier when cultural performers used to come walking to Kartavya Path, where the President is sitting with other dignitaries, they used to perform and move forward. So, we understood the rest of the people present there don’t get to see the view of cultural performance. So, this time, cultural performers will be visible on the entire Kartavya Path,” Major Major General Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area, stated.
8. 300 artists play saare jahaan se achaa on musical instruments at Opening event
According to the Defense Ministry, 300 cultural artists representing various regions of the nation would play “Sare Jahan Se Achha” on musical instruments to announce the ceremonial procession.
9. Approximately 77,000 attendees, including 10,000 special guests
The government wants to increase ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in national events, thus over 10,000 special guests are invited to see the march. According to a release from the Defence Ministry, these Special Guests from various backgrounds are the ones who created “Swarnim Bharat.” They consist of the top achievers across a range of disciplines as well as individuals who have utilized government programs to their fullest potential.
Republic Day Parade
The Republic Day Parade is more than just a display of cultural diversity and military strength; it is a tribute to the resilience and unity of the nation. Each tableau, performance, and contingent tells a story of India’s glorious past and promising future, inspiring citizens to take pride in their heritage and work toward progress.
