The Republic Day celebration highlights the nation’s achievements in various fields, the military prowess, dazzling showcase of air and our diverse cultural heritage.

On this day, people of the country celebrate and enjoy the real spirit of Independence. The celebrations not only uphold secularism and democracy but also showcase the country’s rich culture, languages, dialects, traditions, customs and religions. This year the country is witnessing its 62^nd Republic Day.

Every Indian state holds Republic Day celebration. Cultural events and the flag hoisting ceremony are also organised at schools, colleges, offices and other institutions throughout the nation.

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The capital city of New Delhi witnesses a grand parade. The parade ceremony is commenced at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, where the Prime Minister (External website that opens in a new window) Dr Manmohan Singh pays homage to the martyrs by laying a wreath.

The President of India (External website that opens in a new window) hoists the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute. The different regiments of India’s Army, Navy and Air Force march in-synchrony from Rashtrapati Bhavan, along the Rajpath and reach the India Gate, saluting the President of India (External website that opens in a new window) who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces. This is followed by a massive parade by other military troops including State Regiments and Paramilitary Forces of India.

Tableaux, representing different States, Central Ministries and Departments, showcase the varied historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the country.  Children from various schools, representing unity in diversity, perform folk dances from different states.

Jaanbaz, the motorcycle display by the Border Security Force (BSF) (External website that opens in a new window), always remains a major attraction of the parade. Their synchronized and breathtaking stunts enthrall the audience.

A spectacular fly past by the Indian Air Force (External website that opens in a new window) marks the grand finale of the parade. A streak of jet planes etch the sky with colourful patterns and shower rose petals on the spectators.

DD National, DD News and other channels of Doordarshan (External website that opens in a new window) show live telecast of the flag hoisting ceremony, followed by the Republic Day parade. The All India Radio also broadcasts the event.

‘Beating the Retreat’

Every evening from January 26^th to 29^th, all the major government buildings are illuminated with lights. On the third day after the Republic Day, on January 29, ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony is conducted at Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking the closing ceremony of Republic Day.

On the occasion, massed bands march to popular tunes and drummers also give solo performances.  At 6 pm, the buglers sound the retreat and the National Flag is lowered to formally end the Republic Day celebrations.