India celebrates 76th Republic Day: Grand parade at Kartavya Path, 31 tableaux

India will commemorate its 76th Republic Day today with a magnificent parade on the Kartavya Path highlighting the country’s military strength and vibrant cultural legacy. This year’s festivities are particularly significant as they commemorate the platinum jubilee of the Constitution’s enactment. Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto attended the event as the main guest, joined by a 352-member Indonesian marching band contingent taking part in the parade. Prior to the parade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi guided the country in honoring fallen soldiers through a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial located at India Gate.

The Republic Day parade is set to start at 10.30 am, with President Droupadi Murmu honoring the salute. Approximately 10,000 distinguished guests were invited to observe the event. A total of 31 tableaux will roll down the Kartavya Path, comprising 16 from states and Union Territories and 15 from central ministries and organizations. The theme of the tableaux is ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat and Vikas’.

Advanced defense systems, such as the BrahMos missile, Pinaka rocket system, and Akash air defense system, were showcased at the parade. The Army’s Battle Surveillance System ‘Sanjay’ and the DRDO’s tactical missile ‘Pralay’ were also introduced for the first time. Other military equipment showcased consisted of T-90 ‘Bhishma’ tanks, Sarath infantry transport vehicles, the Nag Missile System, and a vehicle-mounted infantry mortar system (Airawat).

In another unprecedented event, the tri-services presented a joint tableau representing the spirit of unity within the nation’s armed forces. The DRDO’s tableau, themed ‘Raksha Kavach’, displayed multi-tiered defense against various multi-domain threats. The initial Army unit at the front of the mounted column was the renowned 61 Cavalry, the sole active horsed cavalry regiment globally. Veteran women officers from all three branches of the armed forces  represented nari shakti.

The flyover  showcased 40 aircraft from the Indian Air Force, such as the C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster, and Su-30 fighter jets. Three Dornier planes from the Indian Coast Guard enhanced the display.

Moreover, a motorcycle exhibition by the daredevils from the Corps of Signals, a popular attraction, was a key feature of the 90-minute parade.  Cultural displays featuring 5,000 performers span the whole Kartavya Path, with 300 performers playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ on various musical instruments that symbolize different regions of the nation. The capital is protected by a six-layer security system, featuring over 2,500 CCTV cameras equipped with facial recognition, anti-drone technology, rooftop snipers, and limited access to over 200 structures along the parade route.