NEW DELHI: As India commemorates its 75th Republic Day on January 26, the celebrations at Kartavya Path in Delhi are poised to be a poignant representation of the nation’s progress and diversity. The parade will take on a ‘women-centric’ theme, highlighting the integral roles played by women across various sectors. French President Emmanuel Macron is set to grace the occasion as the chief guest.
This year’s Republic Day parade will witness 100 women artists lead the festivities, playing traditional Indian musical instruments such as Sankh, Naadswaram, and Nagada. This departure from the traditional military bands marks a significant step in recognising and celebrating the contributions of women.
The theme for the Republic Day celebrations is ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat: Loktantra ki Matruka,’ embodying the nation’s aspirations and its role as the nurturer of democracy.
President Droupadi Murmu and French President Macron will arrive at Kartavya Path in the traditional buggy, a revival of a practice after a gap of 40 years.
The historic occasion of India’s Republic Day, marking the adoption of the constitution on January 26, 1950, is a time to reflect on the nation’s journey to sovereignty. The constitution was enacted a year later, with Dr. BR Ambedkar leading the drafting committee.
In addition to the symbolic celebrations, the Republic Day Parade 2024 promises several remarkable features including an all-women Tri-Service contingent marching down Kartavya Path. There will be participation of a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band contingent from France and inclusion of French Air Force Rafale fighter jets and multirole tanker transport aircraft in the parade.