With India set to celebrate its 76th Republic Day, preparations for the grand parade are in full swing. The Army, security personnel, and various teams are actively engaged in detailed planning, rehearsals, and implementing enhanced security measures to ensure a smooth and secure Republic Day celebration.
The Republic Day parade will showcase six Army contingents, including the Brigade of the Guards, Mahar Regiment, Jat Regiment, Garhwal Rifles, Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, and Corps of Signals. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will be the Chief Guest. The Army Band will accompany the parade, playing patriotic and martial music that reflects the spirit of the armed forces.
The parade will feature 31 tableaux from States, Union Territories, and Central Ministries, showcasing the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’. Highlights include a flypast by 47 aircraft, two tableaux celebrating 75 years of the Constitution, and performances by cultural artists using traditional instruments from across India. The 61st Cavalry Regiment, the last operational cavalry unit in the world, will also be part of the procession, symbolising the Army's enduring traditions.
The parade will showcase a diverse array of equipment, highlighting the operational readiness and technological strength of the armed forces. Featured will be the T-90 Bhishma main battle tank, Mechanised Infantry with ICV BMP-II (Sarath), and the NAMIS (Nag Missile System), demonstrating mobility and advanced firepower. Also on display will be Nandighosh, a quick reaction fighting vehicle for rapid deployment, Agnibaan, a Pinaka multiple launch rocket system known for precision, the Short Span Bridging System for battlefield mobility, and the Sanjay battlefield surveillance system, enhancing real-time situational awareness.
In addition to the military displays, the parade will feature Chetak all-terrain vehicles, Akash air defence systems, BrahMos missile systems, Grad BM-21 rocket launchers, and the Bajrang light strike vehicle, captivating both the audience and distinguished guests at Kartavya Path on January 26.
Citizens will also play a key role in the celebrations, with 10,000 special guests, including achievers and sarpanches, invited. Couples in traditional attire from each State and Union Territory will attend, alongside winners of online competitions like essay, quiz, painting, and tableau design contests.
Other planned events include cultural performances by 5,000 artists, showcasing over 45 dance forms. The Beating Retreat Ceremony on January 29 will feature only Indian tunes. The Bharat Parv festival at Red Fort, running from January 26 to 31, will highlight food, crafts, and cultural performances.
This year's parade will highlight the armed forces' commitment to national security and progress, while celebrating the achievements in indigenisation and self-reliance under the government's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.
Celebrations in the UK
The Indian diaspora worldwide, including in the UK, is gearing up for grand celebrations to mark India’s 76th Republic Day. In the UK, the festivities will feature cultural events and performances that celebrate India’s rich heritage and achievements. Communities across the country will come together to honour India's constitutional journey, reflecting pride, unity, and a deep connection to India’s history and progress.
The High Commission of India in London invites Indian nationals, persons of Indian origin (PIOs), and friends of India to join the Flag Unfurling Ceremony on 26th January 2025 at 10:00 am (arrival by 9:30 am). The Bhavan will also celebrate India’s Republic Day on 6th February 2025 at 6:30 pm, with Chief Guest His Excellency Mr Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India, gracing the event.
IDUK Group will host a Republic Day celebration in Slough (Berkshire) on 25th January 2025 at the Slough Hindu Temple from 4:30 pm, featuring the flag hoisting and cultural performances by children and adults.
