Republic Day marks the adoption of India’s Constitution on January 26, 1950, three years after gaining independence from Britain. With its enactment, India became an independent, democratic, and republican nation.
The celebrations showcased the country’s military might, cultural richness, and technological advancements, reflecting a blend of heritage (‘virasat’) and progress (‘vikas’). Colourful tableaus, patriotic performances, and a spirit of unity marked this milestone occasion. Padma Awards are also announced on the eve of Republic Day (refer page 16).
The parade began after President Droupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag, followed by a salute from parade commander Lt General Bhavnish Kumar.
In a rare moment, parade commander Lt General Bhavnish Kumar participated in the parade alongside his son, Lt Ahan Kumar, who led the 61 Cavalry contingent on Kartavya Path. The event featured thrilling stunts by daredevils, stunning aerial displays by the Indian Air Force, and concluded with a grand celebration following the national anthem.
The 2025 Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path featured over 18 marching contingents, 31 vibrant tableaux, and around 5,000 performers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to martyrs at the National War Memorial, while Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the Chief Guest, joined military contingents from his country in the Republic Day march-past on Kartavya Path.
The Beating Retreat Ceremony, held annually at Vijay Chowk on January 29, marks the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations. The President, escorted by the 'President's Bodyguards,' leads the event.
Tableaux showcase India’s heritage and progress
During the Republic Day, India showed its military might and cultural heritage in a confluence of ‘virasat’ and ‘vikas’.
A tableau paid tribute to the sacrifices of armed forces veterans, while distinguished sports champions, including Honorary Captain Jitu Rai, Padma Shri Subedar Murlikant Petkar (inspiration for the film ‘Chandu Champion’), Colonel Balbir Singh Kular, and others, added to the honours. Arjuna and Khel Ratna awardees were also in attendance, highlighting India's pride in its heroes.
The Uttar Pradesh tableau, themed “Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,” highlighted cultural heritage and progress. Tableaus from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Tribal Affairs also stood out. The former focused on “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,” while the latter honoured the ‘Tribal Pride Year’ on the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader and reformer Lord Birsa Munda.
Andhra Pradesh’s tableau showcased ‘Etikoppaka Wooden Toys’, a 400-year-old eco-friendly craft known for its vibrant, toxin-free designs. Gujarat’s tableau, “From Anartpur to Ektanagar: A Confluence of Heritage and Development,” highlighted the state’s cultural preservation and progress.
The Central Public Works Department’s flower tableau at the Republic Day parade marked the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution. Featuring the Ashoka Chakra, symbolising life in movement, at the front and the Constitution at the back, it emphasised progress and vitality.
The Delhi government’s tableau showcased the capital as a hub of research, education, and technology. Madhya Pradesh’s tableau celebrated the successful reintroduction of cheetahs at Kuno National Park, showcasing a pair with their cubs, the flowing Kuno River, and thriving wildlife in the park's lush surroundings.
The Ministry of Culture’s tableau highlighted India’s rich heritage, featuring the ancient Tamil instrument ‘Yaazh’ on a symbolic Konark Wheel, representing musical traditions. A kinetic ‘Kalpavriksha’ transforming into a ‘Golden Bird’ symbolised creativity, cultural heritage, and economic progress.
Military excellence stuns at parade
India showcased its military might with elite marching contingents, missiles, and indigenous weapon systems, with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the chief guest.
In a first, a tri-services tableau symbolising "jointness" among the armed forces rolled down Kartavya Path, displaying a coordinated operation involving the Arjun battle tank, Tejas fighter aircraft, and Advanced Light Helicopter. The tableau's theme, “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat” (Strong and Secure India), highlighted India’s defence capabilities. The Indian Naval tableau showcased a self-reliant (‘Atmanirbhar’) Navy, emphasising maritime strength and India’s sea power.
The parade began with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute, arriving at Kartavya Path in a traditional buggy, flanked by President Subianto and the Indian President’s bodyguards. PM Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union ministers, senior military officials, and foreign diplomats were among the spectators.
Indonesian President Subianto joins India's grand Republic Day as chief guest
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto attended India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, becoming part of a select group of global leaders to grace the nation’s biggest ceremonial event in the past seven decades. His presence marked 75 years since Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, attended India’s inaugural Republic Day in 1950 as the chief guest.
Accompanied by President Murmu, PM Modi, Union Cabinet members, and other dignitaries, Subianto witnessed a grand military parade and cultural performances. A former defence minister, Subianto is the fourth Indonesian president to attend India’s Republic Day.
Arriving on a four-day state visit with a delegation of six cabinet ministers, senior officials, and a large business contingent, Subianto was joined by a 352-member Indonesian marching and band contingent - the first time Indonesia has participated in a foreign national day parade.
Indian Republic Day celebrated by diaspora
Indians worldwide marked Republic Day at their country's missions, where the national tri-colour was unfurled. In Beijing, the Indian Embassy hosted a flag hoisting ceremony attended by officials and the diaspora, with Ambassador Pradeep Rawat reading key excerpts from the President's speech.
In Sri Lanka, the Navy band performed Indian patriotic tunes, highlighting the cultural ties between the nations. Acting High Commissioner Satyanjal Pandey and other officials also paid tribute at the IPKF Memorial, honouring Indian soldiers who sacrificed for peace in Sri Lanka.
In Singapore, High Commissioner Shilpak Ambule and around 2,500 Indian nationals celebrated the day at the chancery, where Ambule read the President’s message. Students performed patriotic songs and dances, while an exhibition highlighted products from the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation and showcased the 76th anniversary of India’s Constitution.
In the Philippines, Ambassador Harsh K Jain hoisted the national flag and read the President’s address. In Jakarta, Deputy Chief of Mission Bijay Selvaraj honoured Indian World War II martyrs at the Commonwealth War Memorial. In Israel, Charge d'Affaires Rajiv Bodwale led a flag hoisting ceremony for about 200 Indians.
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President Murmu reflects on India’s growth and legacy
President Droupadi Murmu advocated for the One Nation One Election plan, highlighting its potential to streamline governance, prevent policy paralysis, and reduce costs during her Republic Day address.
In her speech, she emphasised the government’s efforts to dismantle colonial-era mindsets, pointing to the repeal of outdated British criminal laws. The new laws – Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam – aim to deliver justice, particularly for women and children affected by crimes.
Murmu underscored the significance of the One Nation One Election plan, stating it could ensure consistency in governance, reduce policy paralysis, and lower financial burdens. She also highlighted the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj as a reflection of India's rich civilizational heritage and its diverse linguistic landscape.
Reflecting on India's progress since independence, she noted how the Constitution has become a living document, uniting the people and driving economic transformation. She praised the contributions of farmers and labourers, noting that India's high growth rate has lifted many out of poverty while promoting inclusive growth.
Murmu urged citizens to remember the sacrifices of those who fought for India's freedom, honouring the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda. She credited figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Babasaheb Ambedkar for uniting the nation and reinforcing democratic values.
Highlighting the inclusive Constituent Assembly, she emphasised the active role of women, noting that 60% of new teachers today are women. She expressed hope that future generations, especially young women, would continue shaping India’s future. The President called for renewed commitment to Mahatma Gandhi's ideals of truth, non-violence, and compassion for both people and nature.
