PM Modi Walks the Kartavya Path to Greet Citizens

Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the Republic Day tradition by walking along the Kartavya Path, greeting enthusiastic spectators after the 76th Republic Day parade. Amidst patriotic chants and cheers, he connected with the crowd and celebrated the occasion alongside President Droupadi Murmu and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi continued a cherished Republic Day tradition.
- The event showcased India's cultural diversity and unity.
- President Droupadi Murmu led the celebrations.
- Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra recipients led the parade.
- International participation highlighted India’s global connections.
New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi upheld his Republic Day custom by strolling along the Kartavya Path after the 76th Republic Day parade concluded.
He warmly acknowledged the spectators in the enclosures, who greeted him with enthusiastic cheers and applause as he moved past.
The crowd, filled with patriotic fervor, chanted slogans of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and looked on with bright eyes at the Prime Minister.
PM Modi even crossed over to the opposite side of the Kartavya Path, where the jubilant crowd welcomed him and seized the moment with photographs.
The Republic Day festivities were overseen by President Droupadi Murmu, who ceremonially unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, leading the nation in honoring the day.
She was joined by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, this year's Chief Guest.
In keeping with tradition, both Presidents were accompanied by the President's Bodyguard, "Rashtrapati ke Angarakshak", the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army.
Adding a touch of elegance, they arrived in the 'Traditional Buggy', reviving a custom that returned in 2024 after a 40-year hiatus.
Upon their arrival, President Murmu and President Prabowo received a warm welcome from PM Modi, who also greeted Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife Sudesh Dhankhar at the location.
The ceremony commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag, coupled with the playing of the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.
This year's celebrations commemorated 75 years since the Constitution's enactment and emphasized "Jan Bhagidari" (public participation). The event showcased India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military strength.
The parade kicked off with 300 cultural performers playing "Sare Jahan Se Achha" on traditional instruments including the Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Mashak Been, Flute, Sankha, Tutari, and Dhol. The melodies resonated with the aspirations and pride of a billion Indians.
A stunning shower of flower petals was released by Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit in the Dhwaj Formation, symbolizing the national flag, led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.
Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, directed the parade, with Major General Sumit Mehta serving as the Parade Second-in-Command.
The parade was led by gallantry award recipients, including Param Vir Chakra honorees Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), along with Ashok Chakra recipient Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd).
The Param Vir Chakra honors extraordinary valor against the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra commemorates similar acts of bravery during peacetime.
The parade also featured an international presence with the inclusion of the Indonesian National Armed Forces Marching Contingent, comprising 152 members, and the Military Band from Indonesia's Military Academy, which included 190 members.