As the tricolor fluttered high in the sky, a thunderous 21-gun salute rang out with the firing of 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system that symbolizes India’s military prowess. The President was joined by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the chief guest for the occasion, in a grand ceremonial procession. The two heads of state were escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, India’s senior-most regiment, as they arrived in the iconic ‘traditional buggy,’ a ceremonial practice that had been revived in 2024 after a 40-year hiatus.

The parade at Kartavya Path was a visual feast, starting with a stirring rendition of “Sare Jahan Se Achha” played by 300 cultural artists using traditional musical instruments from across the country. The ensemble included the Shehnai, Sundari, Nadaswaram, Been, and Mashak Been, along with instruments like the Ransingha, dhol, gong, and Thavil, among others. This blend of regional sounds resonated with the unity and diverse culture of the Indian subcontinent, capturing the hearts of millions across the nation.

One of the most poignant moments of the day was the recognition of gallantry award winners. The Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime honor, was awarded to Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd). Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd) was honored with the Ashok Chakra for his bravery and sacrifice. These heroes of the nation reminded everyone of the supreme courage displayed by the men and women of India’s armed forces.

In a solemn tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, located at the iconic India Gate. Following this, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries proceeded to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade in all its glory.

In an unprecedented move, this year’s celebrations also saw around 10,000 special guests invited to witness the parade. These guests, from diverse backgrounds, represented the many faces of a vibrant and progressive India. Their inclusion was in line with the government’s goal to enhance ‘Jan Bhagidari’ or public participation in national events, showcasing individuals who have excelled in various fields and made the most of government schemes.

For the first time, a tri-services tableau highlighted the spirit of jointness and integration among India’s armed forces. The tableau, themed ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’ (Empowered and Secure India), depicted a Joint Operations Room designed to improve communication and coordination across the three services – Army, Navy, and Air Force – emphasizing India’s military modernization.

The Republic Day festivities will conclude with the ‘Beating Retreat Ceremony’ on January 29 at Vijay Chowk. This age-old military tradition marks the cessation of battle at sunset, symbolizing the soldiers’ return to camp as they sheath their arms. For the first time in history, only Indian tunes will be played by the participating military bands, underlining the country’s rich musical heritage.

This year’s Republic Day celebrations were a powerful reminder of India’s unwavering commitment to unity, progress, and the valor of its armed forces, with a vivid display of cultural diversity that painted a hopeful picture of a resurgent nation.

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The President emphasized that the Constitution had evolved into a living document, deeply intertwined with India’s civilizational ethos of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—values that have guided the country for millennia. She referred to the Constitution as a testament to the moral compass that has been part of India’s heritage long before modern times.

Reflecting on the history of the Constitution, Murmu highlighted the efforts of the Constituent Assembly, which after nearly three years of deliberations, adopted the Constitution on November 26, 1949. This day is now observed annually as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas), a tribute to the founding principles of the Republic. She stated that while 75 years may seem like a brief moment in the life of a nation, they have marked a significant phase of India’s resurgence on the world stage, reclaiming its rightful place among the great civilizations of history.

Drawing attention to India’s long history of knowledge and wisdom, Murmu acknowledged the dark period of colonial exploitation that stifled the nation’s progress. However, she also paid tribute to the freedom fighters who made monumental sacrifices for India’s independence. This year, the nation is commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a key figure in India’s freedom struggle, whose contributions are now being properly recognized.

President Murmu also celebrated the intellectual and moral leadership of figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who helped India rediscover its democratic values. These leaders championed ideals that were not new to Indian civilization but were integral to its cultural fabric. She pointed out that, despite initial doubts by critics about the sustainability of India’s democracy, the country’s values have proven resilient.

One of the highlights of her speech was the recognition of the role women played in shaping the nation. The Constituent Assembly, which drafted the Constitution, included 15 women, some of whom—like Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, and Sucheta Kripalani—were trailblazers in their own right. Murmu noted that while gender equality was still a distant dream in many parts of the world, India had already made significant strides by including women in the nation-building process.

In her address, the President concluded by expressing profound gratitude to Dr. Ambedkar and the members of the Constituent Assembly for their tireless efforts in crafting the document that has guided India for the past 75 years. She called on the citizens to reflect on the Constitution’s continued relevance and the immense responsibility it bestows on every Indian to uphold its values and ensure the continued progress of the nation.

This Republic Day, President Murmu’s address served as a reminder of the lasting legacy of India’s Constitution, a document that not only defines the legal framework of the nation but also unites its people under the shared banner of democracy, justice, and equality.

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“Greetings to the people of Nagaland on the statehood day. Endowed with a rich heritage of flora and fauna, Nagaland is also a land of bravery. Nagaland’s strides in various development parameters are praiseworthy. My best wishes to the people of this beautiful state for a peaceful, prosperous and progressive future,” President Murmu wrote.

Nagaland, known as the “Land of Festivals,” celebrates its Statehood Day every year to commemorate its establishment as the 16th state of India on December 1, 1963. The state is renowned for its vibrant tribal culture, breathtaking landscapes, and commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage.

The President’s message reflects the central government’s recognition of Nagaland’s contributions to the nation and its aspirations for sustained peace and growth. The day was marked with cultural programs and community events across the state, honoring its unique legacy and achievements.

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