R-Day Parade: A Melting Pot of Cultures

Celebration of India's sovereignty amidst the colours of life is what Republic Day celebrations are all about. The patriotic fervour of the people on this day brings the whole country together even in all Her diversity.

This picture gallery throws light on the Republic Day festivities and brings out the Nation's myriad cultures and traditions to the fore. (AFP Photo)

Every year a grand parade is held from Rashtrapati Bhawan, along Rajpath, to the historic Red Fort.

Prior to its commencement, the Prime Minister lays a floral wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti-a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and succeeding wars of defence of sovereignty of the country. The President then arrives in his motorcade accompanied by a notable Foreign Head of the state, who is the Chief Guest at the celebrations.

Soon afterwards, a 21 gun salute is presented and the President unfurls the national flag as the National Anthem is played. This marks the beginning of the parade.(AFP Photo)

The Parade begins with winners of gallantry awards passing the President in open jeeps. The different regiments of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force march past in all their finery and official decorations.

Even the horses of the cavalry are attractively caparisoned to suit the occasion. Republic Day is also the time when exemplary achievements are recognized and rewarded through out the country.

The most cheered section of the parade is the children who have won national bravery awards who ride past the dais on elephants.(AFP Photo)

The parade is followed by a pageant of spectacular displays from different states of the country.

These moving exhibits depict scenes of activities of people in those states. The music and songs of the particular state accompany each display.

Here is a look at some of the tableaux from the various states. (AFP Photo)

A float carrying a tableau from Maharashtra state showcasing the famous "Dabbawallas" rolls past during the final full dress rehearsal for the Indian Republic Day parade in New Delhi. (AFP Photo)

Traditional Indian dancers from the state of Manipur perform during a press preview of tableaux participating in the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. (AFP Photo)

Indian schoolgirls perform a traditional Punjabi giddha dance during a rehearsal for the upcoming Republic Day parade. (AFP Photo)

The parade also sees the Indian military showcasing its latest acquisitions. Also, it includes a display of skillful motorcycle riding, usually by a division from one of the armed forces. The crème of NCC cadets selected from all over the country consider it an honour to participate in this event as do the school children from various schools in the capital.(AFP Photo)

The most eagerly awaited part of the parade is the Fly Past put on by the Indian Air Force (IAF) wherein the fighter planes of the IAF roar past the dais symbolically saluting the President. (AFP Photo)

After 3 days of the Republic Day Parade, a moving ceremony known as the “Beating Retreat” is held that marks the formal end of the celebrations.

This ceremony revives an ancient war custom according to which troops used to stop fighting at sunset.

The ceremony opens with a parade by select contingents of the Armed Forces set to scintillating performances by the Armed Forces bands.

The parade climaxes with all the bands playing in unison. The hymn 'Abide with me' said to be Mahatma Gandhi's favorite is a permanent feature of the ceremony.(AFP Photo)

This is followed by a bugle call for retreat and the Tiranga is slowly brought down. The most visually appealing part of the show is the spectacular illumination where a thousand bulbs light up the Rashtrspati Bhawan and adjoining buildings.(AFP Photo)

The essence behind the celebrations of Republic day is not only to celebrate India's secularism and democracy but it also makes us feel proud of our culture, languages , social norms, traditions, customs, communitarian and individual distinctiveness that makes India a multi-cultural country with an underlined thread of unity cutting across the length and breadth of the nation.(AFP Photo)