NEW DELHI (AP) — India commemorated its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, with a vibrant parade showcasing both its military strength and cultural richness in the capital. The Indonesian President, Prabowo Subianto, was the esteemed guest of honor, marking a significant occasion in India's tradition of inviting foreign dignitaries to witness the celebrations.
The parade took place along Rajpath Avenue, which has historical significance as it was constructed by India's past British rulers. It was redeveloped and renamed Kartavayapath, meaning the Boulevard of Duty, as part of the 75th anniversary of Indian independence celebrations in 2022. Tens of thousands of spectators braved the cold to witness the event, which celebrates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, nearly three years after gaining independence from British colonial rule.
Participants included soldiers from India’s military and paramilitary forces, accompanied by marching bands as dignitaries and leaders observed the proceedings. Various floats highlighted India's cultural diversity, with a particular focus on the ongoing Maha Kumbh festival, recognized as the world’s largest religious gathering. This year was significant as a contingent of 342 members from the Indonesian National Armed Forces participated in the parade— the first instance of ASEAN troops joining such an event abroad.
The Republic Day parade was elaborate, featuring performances from thousands dressed in traditional costumes. These performers displayed over 40 different dance forms representing various regions of India, accompanied by traditional instruments and props. The 90-minute spectacle included displays of domestically manufactured military equipment, showcasing tanks, infantry combat vehicles, radar, and missile systems. The event concluded with a dramatic fly-past by Indian Air Force fighters, including Rafale jets, transport planes, and helicopters.
The celebrations extended beyond the capital to state capitals and cities throughout India, amid extensive security measures. In Srinagar, the main city of the disputed region of Kashmir, the government ensured heightened security as citizens gathered to witness the Republic Day parade. Despite the chilly conditions, large crowds attended, watched over by armed police and military personnel, who conducted vehicle checks and frisked attendees. This local observance of Republic Day was a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics surrounding Kashmir, a region administered by both India and Pakistan but claimed by both nations in its entirety.
Historically, Republic Day parades have held notable significance in India; for instance, Sukarno, the first president of Indonesia, was the chief guest during India’s inaugural Republic Day celebration in 1950. Other international guests have included French President Emmanuel Macron in 2024 and former U.S. President Barack Obama in 2015. The tradition symbolizes India’s diplomatic relationships and global standing, while the celebrations themselves foster a sense of national pride among citizens.
As live broadcast networks covered the celebrations, the event reflected India's enduring democratic spirit and the diverse cultural landscape that unites the nation. The Republic Day celebrations serve not just to commemorate the past but also to strengthen national unity amidst contemporary challenges, contending with regional strife and a multifaceted identity.
