The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
NEW DELHI, JANUARY 26, 2025
President of India, Droupadi Murmu, presided over the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, marking a vibrant and historic commemoration of the nation’s unity and progress. Accompanied by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, this year’s Chief Guest, the event highlighted cultural diversity, military strength, and 75 years of the Constitution’s enactment.
In a nostalgic revival of tradition after 40 years, both Presidents arrived at Kartavya Path in the regal ‘Traditional Buggy,’ escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the dignitaries, along with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife Sudesh Dhankhar, underscoring the grandeur of the occasion.
The celebrations began with the unfurling of the National Flag by President Murmu, followed by the resonant strains of the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute. The ceremony embraced the theme of “Jan Bhagidari” (public participation), reflecting the shared aspirations of a billion Indians.
A colorful cultural display kicked off the parade, with 300 artists playing “Sare Jahan Se Achha” on traditional instruments like the Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Flute, and Sankha. Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit mesmerized the audience with a flower-petal shower in the Dhwaj Formation, symbolizing the tricolor.
Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding of Delhi Area, commanded the parade as President Murmu took the salute. Adding a global touch, the Indonesian National Armed Forces’ Marching Contingent, consisting of 152 members, and a 190-member Military Band from Indonesia’s Military Academy joined the spectacle.
The 76th Republic Day was a vibrant celebration of India’s unity, equality, and development, offering a vivid reminder of the nation’s journey and its aspirations for the future.
