76th Republic Day: President Murmu hoists the flag at Kartavya Path
On Sunday, President Droupadi Murmu hoisted the national flag at Kartavya Path to mark the 76th Republic Day. The flag hoisting was followed by the national anthem and a resounding 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, a domestically developed weapon system.
The President of India and President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia, who is the chief guest for this year's Republic Day, were accompanied by the President's Bodyguard, the oldest regiment in the Indian Army.
The two Presidents arrived in the 'traditional buggy,' a custom that was revived in 2024 after a 40-year hiatus. The procession at Kartavya Path will be led by 300 cultural performers playing 'Sare Jahan Se Achha' using musical instruments from various regions of the nation.
This traditional mix of instruments would resonate with the melody, rhythm, and dreams of a billion Indian hearts. The collection of instruments features Shehnai, Sundari, Nadaswaram, Been, Mashak Been, Ransingha (Rajasthan), flute, Karadi Majalu, Mohuri, Sankha, Tutari, dhol, gong, Nishan, Chang, Tasha, Sambal, Chenda, Idakka, Lezim, Thavil, Gudum Baza, Talam, and Monbah.
The esteemed recipients of the highest bravery awards will be presented. Among them are Param Vir Chakra awardees Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) & Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), along with Ashok Chakra awardee Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd).
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, which is situated at the famous India Gate. This act paid homage to those who sacrificed their lives. Subsequently, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries moved to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to watch the parade.
Approximately 10,000 distinguished guests have been invited to observe the parade, aligning with the government's goal to enhance 'Jan Bhagidari' in nationally significant events. According to a Defence Ministry release, these special guests from various sectors are the creators of 'Swarnim Bharat.' They include high performers in various fields and those who have effectively taken advantage of government programs.
For the first time, a tri-services tableau will highlight the unity and integration of the armed forces with the theme 'Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat.' The tableau will feature a Joint Operations Room that enhances networking and communication among the three services. The Republic Day celebrations will conclude with the 'Beating Retreat Ceremony,' held annually on January 29th at Vijay Chowk.
It signifies a long-standing military tradition where soldiers stopped fighting, put away their weapons, left the battlefield, and returned to their camps at sunset upon hearing the retreat signal. In the 2025 Beating Retreat Ceremony, only Indian melodies will be performed by all the participating bands.