The 75th Republic Day parade began on Friday for the first time with traditional musical instruments in a performance called 'Avaahan'. Various traditional musical instruments were played by women to "call" the the parade participants to the Kartavya Path. French President Emmanuel Macron is the chief guest for this year's parade. He arrived in Jaipur on Thursday, beginning a 2-day visit.


Every year, millions of Indians watch television to see the rich historical,cultural legacy, and the spectacle of the nation's growth and triumphs, as well as airshows by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. 


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Viksit Bharat's vibrant cultural diversity the 'Aatmanirbhar' military strength and the expanding Nari Shakti are the dominant themes of the 90-minute parade, which will be honoured by French President Emmanuel Macron as Chief Guest. 


For the first time ever, an all-women Tri-Service contingent will be marching along the Kartavya path. Women pilots will also captivate the audience during the Indian Air Force's fly-past, portraying Nari Shakti (women's power). The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) contingents will likewise be all-women.


ALSO READ | Republic Day 2024: Kartavya Path To Witness First All-Women Tri-Services Contingent Today 


Over 100 women artists will lead the march, performing Indian musical instruments. The procession would begin with music from Sankh, Naadswaram, Nagada, and other female performers. 


The ceremonial event will feature a traditional display of the nation's defence forces, including a thrilling show of massive cavalcades made up of mechanised columns equipped with cutting-edge technology, marches of contingents, and a display of different culture and unity in diversity.


This year's parade, themed 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Bharat - Loktantra ki Matruka', will feature approximately 13,000 special guests - an initiative that will allow people from all walks of life to participate in the celebrations and encourage Jan Bhagidari in this national festival. 


ALSO READ | Delhi Weather: Fog Blankets Capital As Kartavya Path Gears Up For Republic Day Parade, Flight Services Hit


Republic Day: History


Republic Day celebrates the promulgation of India's Constitution on January 26, 1950. While India obtained independence from the British Raj in 1947, the Constitution of India did not go into force until January 26, 1950, when the nation became a sovereign state and declared itself a republic. T


he Constituent Assembly had its first and last sessions on December 9, 1946, and November 26, 1949, respectively, before adopting the Constitution a year later. Dr. BR Ambedkar chaired the Constitutional Drafting Committee. On this day, India also celebrates Constitution Day.


Where To Watch R-Day Parade 2024


The parade is being live streamed on state-run channels - Doordarshan and Sansad TV. Millions of Indians can witness the grand Republic Day ceremony on various platforms. You can also watch the celebration on YouTube and Twitter.


You can also watch the live telecast at republicday.nic.in