India will celebrate its 76th Republic Day with grandeur and patriotic fervour on January 26, 2025. President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, where for the first time a tri-services tableau will make its debut at the R-day parade. This year's Republic Day theme is "Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas" which reflects India's rich cultural heritage and its continuous journey towards development.
The grand parade is set to take place at the iconic Kartavya Path in New Delhi, with Indonesian President Prabowo Sabianto attending as the chief guest.
Here is all you need to know about the Republic Day Parade 2025:
Parade Schedule
The parade will commence at 10:30 AM and last approximately 90 minutes. While the parade commences at 10:30 am, the gates to the venue will open at 7:00 AM.
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The ceremony will begin with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute to India’s fallen heroes at the National War Memorial. Following this, President Murmu, accompanied by her Indonesian counterpart, will arrive in a traditional buggy escorted by the President’s Bodyguard.
The National Flag will be unfurled amidst a 21-gun salute, followed by a cultural prelude with 300 artists playing “Sare Jahan Se Achha” on traditional Indian instruments. The event will also feature Mi-17 IV helicopters showering petals in the Dhwaj Formation.
Where To Watch
The Republic Day coverage begins at 10:30 AM on Sunday and will be available on ABP News, ABP LIVE and the YouTube page of ABP Live.
The Republic Day parade can also be watched on the Doordarshan channel and All India Radio's YouTube channel. Moreover, the government websites and their YouTube channels will also host the live stream.
Military Parade
Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, will lead the parade as Parade Commander, with Major General Sumit Mehta as his deputy. The gallantry awardees, including Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra recipients, will follow next.
For the first time, a marching contingent and military band from Indonesia will participate. They will join nine mechanised columns and nine marching contingents from the Indian Army, showcasing indigenous advancements such as the BrahMos missile, Akash Weapon System, and T-90 Bhishma tanks.
Tri-Services Tableau
A debut Tri-services tableau titled Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat will demonstrate joint operations across land, water, and air, featuring cutting-edge platforms like the Arjun Main Battle Tank and Tejas Mk II fighter aircraft.
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Veterans and Women Representation
A Veterans’ Tableau will honour decorated servicemen and sports legends, including Subedar Murlikant Petkar and Honorary Captain Jitu Rai. Women officers from all three services will lead contingents, symbolising Nari Shakti.
Cultural Performances and Air Display
Over 5,000 artists will perform “Jayati Jaya Mamaḧ Bharatam,” presenting 45 Indian dance forms. For the first time, this cultural spectacle will span the entire Kartavya Path, ensuring an immersive experience for all attendees.
The much-anticipated fly-past will feature 40 aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30, and Apache helicopters, showcasing thrilling formations such as Dhwaj, Trishul, and the concluding Vertical Charlie maneuver by a Rafale fighter jet.
Ease of Access for Visitors
Special arrangements include free Delhi Metro rides for ticket holders, accessible enclosures, and park-and-ride facilities. Youth volunteers and wheelchair assistance will ensure inclusivity.
Special Guests
Around 10,000 special invitees, comprising achievers across various fields and champions of government initiatives, will attend. They embody the spirit of Swarnim Bharat (Golden India).
The Republic Day 2025 celebrations promise to be a mesmerizing tribute to India’s heritage, progress, and the indomitable spirit of its people.