Delhi reels under cold waves in January, but Republic day celebrations galore! Being the hub of historic palaces and Indian politics, the national capital celebrates January 26th, with grandeur. The ever bustling cosmopolitan wears a patriotic mask well in advance, NCC cadets, school students, children and artistes from remotest corners of the country toil hard to put up a magnificent parade in front of national and international audience.
India is all set to observe 65th Republic Day this year. Keeping up to the age-old custom of inviting foreign dignitaries, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will grace the occasion this time. What grips every soul in-course of the ceremony, is remembering unsung heroes who laid their lives in India’s defence. It is for their selfless sacrifice fighting external aggressors, that countrymen can sleep in peace.
Prime Minister lays a floral wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti, as a sign of respect to Indian martyrs. The President, Prime Minister along with other high ranking dignitaries sit through the entire celebration.The colorful parade takes off from Raisina Hill near Rashtrapati Bhawan, continues through Rajpath, past India Gate stretching to Red Fort. The President hoists the tri-color flag, national anthem follows and finally there are 21 gun salutes. He then confers Ashok Chakra and Kirti Chakra awards to armed forces and civilians for their act of bravery and valor. The crowd gives standing applause when children crowned with National Bravery Awards rides past the track on a decorated elephant.
The Republic Day parade, is globally acknowledged and greatly revered for a tasteful portrayal of Indian culture. Floats, dances, tableaux from states and Union Territories of the country mesmerize audience with their detailing and perfection. Regional tunes and a fine show of Indian customs and beliefs set in the right ambiance. Guests can get to witness the cultural ethos of India during the national carnival. Breathtaking motorcycle stunts by Armed forces are a sheer depiction of fearlessness and self-confidence by the daredevils. Jets and helicopters of Indian Air Forces color the sky carrying National Flag and dramatic airshow. Often rose petals are showered on the audience.
Spotlight on other metropolis’ now, patriotic flavor engulfs the nation. Kolkata hosts parades across Red Road, Mumbai sees Republic Day celebrations in Shivaji Park. Marina Beach and Kamaraj Salai gets guests for Chennai parade while Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground in Bangalore lodges a cultural fair to mark the 26th.
Being a national holiday, every Indian participates in the celebrations either through physical presence or being hooked to TV channels telecasting minutes of the ceremony. Keeping safety of participants and LIVE audience in mind, the cops and armed forces undertake all possible security measures. For those heading to witness the colorful ceremony, brace up for this jaw-dropping nationalistic solemnization.
