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Republic Day Parade in India: Republic day in India is celebrated every year by organizing a huge and grand Republic Day parade in New Delhi at Rajpath, India Gate. Republic Day parade is held annually on 26th of January after the Flag hoisting by the Indian President. This activity becomes the main attraction of Republic Day Celebration of India which generally extends for next 3 days until the beating retreat ceremony. It is organized by the Indian government to represent the defence capability, cultural and social heritages of India in front of the world.
Organizing this event takes much effort from the end of both, the organizer and the participants. Military parades are held in the national capital as well as various state capitals of the country. Representatives from Army, Navy, Air Force and state wise traditional dance groups of India participate in the Republic Day parade.
Republic Day Parade 2024
Every year on January 26th, India joyfully celebrates Republic Day. This year on 26th January 2024, India will be marking 74 years of the Indian Constitution. This special day, falling on a Wednesday this year brings a change in the timing of the Republic Day parade in 2024. Starting with the President talking to the nation, the real excitement happens at Rajpath, New Delhi, where a big parade occurs. The parade isn’t just a show; it tells the story of India’s diverse culture and strong military.
What is Republic Day Parade of India?
A parade especially held at Republic Day Celebration of India is called as Republic Day Parade. Generally, a parade is a military or public procession held while celebrating a special day or event. We can say that it is assemble of group of people for a formal inspection or ceremonial occasion. It is held in meaningful way to display something while marching or moving around a place or way.
A parade is also called as march or marchpast during which a theme based unique representation is carried out by the group of people. Generally, it is organized alongside a street in a particular costume accompanied by the marching bands or floats (a small vehicle or cart especially powered by electricity). A parade can be held for a wide range of reasons however, generally held during celebration of an event or festival. Sometimes, people perform parade during protest demonstrations.
An excellent arrangement is done to demonstrate Republic Day Parade of India at the Rajpath, India Gate. First of all, the president of India unfurls the National Flag of India followed by the National Anthem of India (Jana Gana Mana) is played. A National Salute is given through 21-gun salute. After this, awards (like the Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra, etc) are distributed by the Indian President among people who deserve these awards.
Then the bravery awards and medals are distributed by the President among people (from armed forces and civilians) for their exceptional courage and different acts of valor in difficult situations respectively. Some children (who receive National Bravery Award) also take part in the parade during which they ride in front of the spectators on some colorfully decorated elephants or vehicles.
Republic Day Parade 2024 Theme
The upcoming 75th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26, 2024, is set to shine a spotlight on women empowerment with the themes of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka.’ Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane shared in a press conference that women will take centre stage, with women marching contingents leading the parade.
In line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision that ‘India is truly a mother of democracy,’ the themes aim to showcase the rich cultural diversity, unity, and progress of the nation. The parade will open with the unique touch of 100 women artists playing traditional Indian musical instruments, setting a vibrant tone.
A significant first, an all-women Tri-Service contingent will march down Kartavya Path, alongside women personnel in the CAPF contingents. The Defence Secretary emphasised that this Republic Day parade will be the best representation of women, celebrating their strength and contribution.
The parade, commencing at 10:30 am, is expected to run for approximately 90 minutes. Kartavya Path has a seating capacity of 77,000, with 42,000 reserved for the general public. It promises to be a historic and inclusive celebration of India’s progress and the pivotal role women play in shaping the nation’s destiny. Organising the parade is a big task, with the Defence Ministry and many others working together. Thousands of soldiers and others play important roles to make it a success.
Republic Day Parade 2024 Chief Guest
Republic Day Parade promises to be an extraordinary event with French President Mr Emmanuel Macron as the Chief Guest. Shri Giridhar Aramane revealed that a contingent of 95 marchers and a 33-member band from France would also participate, along with the impressive Fly-past featuring French Air Force aircraft.
Adding to the grandeur, approximately 13,000 Special Guests have been invited to witness the parade. These guests, encompassing achievers from diverse fields, symbolise the pride of the nation. In line with the government’s vision of Jan Bhagidari, individuals from various walks of life have been extended this unique opportunity.
The list of Special Guests is extensive and diverse, including outstanding performers, beneficiaries of government schemes, Sarpanches of Vibrant Villages, women workers of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and many more. Notably, special emphasis has been placed on including those from Vibrant Villages, recognising the challenges they face in their livelihoods. The parade will honour individuals from various sectors, showcasing the government’s commitment to inclusive participation and recognising the significant contributions of diverse segments of society. The special guests will be seated prominently at Kartavya Path, contributing to the vibrant and inclusive spirit of Republic Day celebrations.
Republic Day Parade Celebrations
Republic Day in India is a day filled with traditions and vibrant celebrations. Across the country, flag-hoisting ceremonies and parades take place, showcasing the unity and diversity of the nation. The most significant of these events unfolds at Rajpath, now known as Kartavya Path, in Delhi, offering a kaleidoscopic view of India’s rich cultural heritage and military strength.
The grand parade begins with the arrival of the President, who unfurls the national flag while the anthem plays and a 21-gun salute echoes through the air. The parade is a spectacular display featuring missiles, tanks, and other military equipment, highlighting the country’s formidable strength. States and Union Territories contribute by presenting colorful acts that represent their unique cultures and heritage.
A thrilling flypast follows, featuring aircraft from the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Army, showcasing awe-inspiring aerial maneuvers. The parade attracts dignitaries from around the world, Indian political figures, and the general public.
Republic Day is also a time for honoring exceptional individuals. The President distributes Padma Awards to deserving civilians, while brave soldiers are recognized with prestigious awards like Paramvir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Vir Chakra.
The festivities conclude with the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk on January 29. The President, accompanied by the ‘President’s Bodyguards,’ presides over the ceremony, where military bands and regiments come together to create a captivating musical spectacle. Republic Day is not just a celebration; it’s a reflection of India’s strength, unity, and diverse heritage.
Republic Day Parade Timing
Republic Day is celebrated on January 26. It is a special day for India as it marks the adoption of our Constitution in 1950. The Republic Day Parade timing is 10 AM. The upcoming Republic Day Parade 2024 will start at 10:00 am from Vijay Chowk. To catch all the action, grab your seat by 9:30 am as the parade covers a five-kilometre route. It will conclude at the National Stadium in Delhi.
The Delhi Republic Day Parade along Rajpath is not just a march; it’s a lively exhibition of India’s diverse culture and rich history. People from every corner of the country gather to witness the festivities, which include cultural performances, military displays, and more.
Republic Day Parade Tickets
If someone wants to buy 74th Republic Day Parade Tickets, they can follow the below given steps. Ticket bookings open on January 10 and will continue until January 25, but keep in mind that there’s a limited number of tickets available each day.
To encourage maximum public involvement, the number of seats for the Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony 2024 has been increased. Tickets can be booked through www.aamantran.mod.gov.in or the MSeva Mobile App, available on Google Play Store.
Republic Day Parade – January 26, 2024
₹20 tickets: 4,320 available
₹100 tickets: 37,680 available
Beating Retreat Ceremony – January 29, 2024
₹100 tickets: 1,200 available
Tickets for the parade are available in both online and offline mode for sale. One can buy Delhi Republic Day Parade Tickets by following either of two methods given below.
Buying Tickets Online:
1. Visit the Official Ministry of Defence Website:
Go to the official web portal of the Ministry of Defence to start your ticketbuying journey.
2. Sign In or Register:
Either sign in if you’re an existing user or register for a new account to proceed.
3. Input Personal Information:
Fill in your personal details, including your name, birth date, and mobile number.
4. Authenticate Your Identity:
Verify your identity by entering the code sent to your registered mobile number (OTP).
5. Select Your Preferred Event:
Choose the event you want to attend from options like FDR Republic Day Parade, Republic Day Parade, or Beating the Retreat.
6. Furnish Attendee Details:
Provide details about the attendees and upload an original Photo ID for verification purposes.
7. Complete Online Payment:
Secure your tickets by completing the online payment process conveniently.
Buying Tickets Offline:
1. Visit an Authorised Outlet or Ticket Counter:
Head to an authorised outlet or the designated ticket counter to purchase tickets for Republic Day events.
2. Present Proof of Identity:
Show proof of identity and complete a physical form, supplying personal information such as your name, birth date, and mobile number.
3. Select Your Preferred Event:
Choose your desired event from the available options, which may include FDR Republic Day Parade, Republic Day Parade, or Beating the Retreat.
4. Furnish Attendee Details:
Provide details about the attendees and submit a photocopy of the original Photo ID for verification.
5. Finalize Ticket Purchase:
Complete the payment process to finalise your ticket purchase offline.
Which Award Is Presented During the Republic Day Parade
During the Republic Day parade, one of the distinguished awards presented is the National Bravery Awards. Instituted by the Government of India in 1957, these awards are a testament to the exceptional courage and bravery displayed by children in the face of adversity. Comprising two main categories, the Bharat Award and the Geeta Chopra Award, the National Bravery Awards honour the remarkable bravery of children who have demonstrated acts of exceptional courage. These awards pay homage to individuals like Bharat and Geeta Chopra, brave children who sacrificed their lives to save others.
The awards also include the Sanjay Chopra Award, the Bapu Gaidhani Award, and the General National Bravery Awards. Each recipient undergoes a thorough selection process, with their acts of bravery ranging from rescuing individuals from life-threatening situations to facing natural disasters head-on.
By presenting these awards during the Republic Day parade, the government aims to inspire and motivate young minds across the nation. The National Bravery Awards stand as a symbol of recognition for these young heroes, encouraging others to exhibit courage and resilience in challenging circumstances.
Significance of 26 January Parade
A grand republic day parade is held on 26 January to mark the importance of this occasion. It is held especially in the national capital, New Delhi in front of the Ama Jawan Jyoti to pay tribute and honor to the India soldiers for their sacrifices during freedom movement and war to protect the nation. It starts from the Raisina Rashtrapati Bhavan along to the Rajpath and ends at past India Gate. This parade is very significant as it represents the power of Indian armed forced (by showing tanks, missiles, radars, etc), culture and tradition of different Indian states and creativity of school students.
Invited chief guest (from another country) and President of India becomes the guest of honor of the republic day parade. Floral tribute at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, flag hoisting, 21 gun salute and play of National Anthem mark the beginning of parade. President of India (the Commander-in-Chief of Indian Armed Forces) takes the salute of this grand parade. It gives courage to the Indian youths and makes them feel proud to be an Indian citizen.
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Republic Day Parade in Other Cities of India
Beside the national capital, there are various other cities all through the India where republic day parade is performed:
- A grand republic day parade was held in Mumbai at Marine Drive (in 2014) or Shivaji Park in central Mumbai (in 2015).
- A parade and cultural fair is organized in Bangalore on 26 January at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground.
- In Kolkata, it is organized along the Red Road near the Maidan.
- In Chennai, the most common venues are Kamaraj Salai and Marina Beach.
Beating Retreat Ceremony (End of Republic Day Parade)
Beating Retreat ceremony is a ritual performed later to the republic day celebration. It officially denotes the end of festivities after 26 January. It is generally held on the eve of 29th January means on third day after the event celebration. Government buildings look dazzling as they get decorated with lights from 26th to 29th January. Beating the retreat ceremony is performed by the group of all the three wings of Indian military (Army, Navy and Air Force). It is performed at the Vijay Chowk (Victory Square), Rajpath and marks the end of 4 days long celebration of republic day in India. It is an event of national pride performed to mark the centuries old military tradition and carried out annually since 1950. It starts with the flag hoisting ceremony followed by the parade and display of rich cultural heritage and military power of India.
President of India becomes the Chief Guest of this ceremony who arrives to the venue with a cavalry unit (soldiers who fight on horseback). This unit gives a National Salute on the order of PBG commander (President’s Bodyguards) when President arrives. At 6 pm in the evening, the National Flag is lowered when a bugler (a brass instrument like a small trumpet) sounds the retreat (means a signal for a military withdrawal). Then Indian National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana) is played by the Army (military bands, pipe, drum bands, buglers and trumpeters, bands of Navy and Air Force, etc) for the formal end. Later, some popular tunes (like Abide With Me, Mahatma Gandhi’s favorite hymn, Saare Jahan Se Achcha, etc) are also played at the end of ceremony.
Republic Day Parade: FAQs
Where does the Republic Day Parade start?
The Republic Day Parade starts from Vijay Chowk to Kartavya Path at 10:30 am on 26 January.
Where is the main Republic Day Parade held in India?
The main Republic Day Parade is held at Kartavya Path (formerly known as Rajpath) in New Delhi.
What is the significance of the National Bravery Awards presented during the Republic Day parade?
The National Bravery Awards recognize and commend acts of exceptional courage and bravery among children, inspiring and motivating others to demonstrate courage in the face of adversity.
What time is the Republic Day parade?
The Republic Day parade in Delhi starts at 10:30 am on Friday, January 26 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi where it is expected to last for approximately 90 minutes.
How can I watch Republic Day parade in Delhi?
You can stream the Republic Day parade online through the Doordarshan Official YouTube Channel or the Press Bureau of India (PBI) website. The parade route encompasses Vijay Chowk, Kartavya Path, C-Hexagon, the statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, and Netaji Subhash Marg, concluding at Red Fort.
What happens on Republic Day parade?
The Republic Day parade showcases India's cultural diversity, military strength, and technological achievements. It includes vibrant floats, military displays, cultural performances, and the impressive flypast by the Indian Air Force.
Who will be the chief guest on 26 January 2024?
In the current year, the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations is French President Emmanuel Macron.
