India marked its 75th Republic Day on January 26, 2024, with a grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, showcasing its military and cultural might, as well as its commitment to women's empowerment and democracy. The event was graced by French President Emmanuel Macron, who was the chief guest, reflecting the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
The parade, which began at 10:30 am, was heralded by over 100 women artistes playing Indian musical instruments such as Sankh, Naadswaram, and Nagada for the first time instead of the traditional military bands. The parade also featured an all-women tri-services contingent, comprising Agniveers and regular recruits, who proudly marched down the Kartavya Path. Fifteen women pilots were part of the Indian Air Force's fly-past, while the contingents of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) also consisted of only women personnel.
The parade also displayed India's indigenous military hardware, including missiles, drone jammers, surveillance systems, vehicle-mounted mortars, and BMP-II infantry combat vehicles. A combined band and marching contingent of the French Armed Forces also joined the parade, adding to the spectacle.
The themes for the parade were 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and 'Bharat - Loktantra ki Matruka' (India - Mother of Democracy), encapsulating the aspirations and democratic ethos of the nation. The parade also featured tableaux from various states and union territories, depicting their cultural and developmental achievements. The tableaux of Uttar Pradesh was inspired by Ayodhya's new Ram temple, while the tableaux of Bihar showcased the legacy of freedom fighter and socialist leader Karpoori Thakur.
The parade culminated at the Red Fort, a 7th Century monument, where President Droupadi Murmu, accompanied by President Macron, addressed the nation and congratulated the people on the historic occasion. She also conferred the highest civilian awards, the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Shri, to eminent personalities from various fields. She also honoured the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation with the gallantry awards.
The celebrations continued in the afternoon with a captivating display of cultural programs that celebrated India's artistic diversity. The programs included folk dances, classical music, martial arts, and patriotic songs. The programs also featured a special performance by the French Foreign Legion Band, who played the Indian and French national anthems.
The celebrations concluded with a dazzling display of fireworks that lit up the sky over the capital, creating a memorable tribute to the nation's unity, diversity, and progress in 2024.