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NEW DELHI: India marked its 77th Republic Day on Monday with ceremonies across the country commemorating the adoption of the Constitution. The celebrations highlighted India’s democratic journey, cultural heritage and military strength. Kartavya Path in New Delhi remained the focal point of the national event, drawing top leadership, foreign dignitaries and thousands of spectators.President Murmu presided over Kartavya Path ceremonyPresident Droupadi Murmu presided over the main Republic Day ceremony at Kartavya Path, arriving in a ceremonial buggy escorted by the President’s Bodyguard. She later took the salute as the parade commenced. The event reaffirmed the President’s role as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
European leaders attended as chief guestsThe President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, attended the celebrations as chief guests. Their presence marked a significant diplomatic moment, reflecting India’s growing engagement with the European Union. It was also the EU’s first participation in India’s Republic Day parade.PM Modi paid tribute at National War MemorialAhead of the parade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate. He observed a two-minute silence in honour of fallen soldiers and signed the digital visitors’ book. Senior military leaders and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh were present during the solemn ceremony.Theme celebrated 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’The overarching theme of this year’s celebrations was 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. The theme reflected India’s freedom struggle, cultural unity and national awakening. Performances and tableaux highlighted the song’s enduring role in shaping India’s national consciousness.Operation Sindoor showcased prominentlyOperation Sindoor, a recent military action, featured prominently during the parade. A glass-cased Integrated Operational Centre depicted the planning and execution of the operation, highlighting inter-service coordination. The display underscored India’s focus on swift, technology-driven military responses.Indigenous weapons and military platforms on displayThe parade showcased a wide range of indigenously developed weapon systems, including BrahMos and Akash missiles, the Arjun main battle tank and the Suryastra rocket launcher. Advanced platforms such as hypersonic glide missiles and unmanned systems reflected India’s push towards defence self-reliance.First-ever phased ‘Battle Array Format’ unveiledFor the first time, the Army showcased a phased ‘Battle Array Format’ combining ground and aerial components. High-mobility reconnaissance vehicles, armoured platforms and helicopter support demonstrated battlefield integration. The display highlighted the Army’s shift towards agile, modern warfare concepts.Tableaux of unity, heritage and developmentA total of 30 tableaux, 17 from states and Union Territories and 13 from ministries and departments, rolled down Kartavya Path. The tableaux presented a blend of cultural heritage, governance initiatives and developmental milestones. Several displays wove together the legacy of Vande Mataram with India’s contemporary progress.Grand aerial flew-past caps celebrationsThe celebrations concluded with a spectacular fly-past involving 29 aircraft from the Indian Air Force and Navy. Fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters flew in coordinated formations, symbolising operational readiness and air power. The fly-past remained one of the most anticipated highlights of the parade. Go to Source