Their white-gloved hands and white spatted feet will trail a lightening effect along the length of the route. The sparkling yellow lingard will standout on the drab green of the Angola shirts further highlighted by the golden scarf around their stiff necks. Their tidy beards rolled up adding to their structure as mighty warriors. Medals worn on their proud chest reflect the valour they possess. The slim waists circumvented in Red and Gold Kamarband on which sits the shining black belt and the shining Sikh Regimental belt buckle.
The Lion encircled in Sikh Quoit surmounted by the Ashoka Lions, A bouquet of Lions for the Sikh lions. The physical effect is awesome and awe-inspiring.
As the contingent commander approaches the saluting base on word of command "Dhine Dekh"(look right) in unison the turban encased heads spring right, the chakkars gleaming in the sun. The brave Sikhs march on in perfect harmony, with disciplined steps in neat files and rows. Not a step wrong and not an arm out of place. Step aside the Sikh Regiment will be on Rajpath, this 26 January!
Interesting facts about the Sikh regiment
Right through from Vijay Chowk to Red Fort, all contingents salute only once - they salute the President Of India. But the Sikh Regiment salutes twice. The second salute is to Gurudwara Sis Ganj. The sewadars in return shower rose petals on the brave Sikh soldiers.
This tradition by the Sikh Regiment was started by Brig Injo Gakhal when he led the contingent sometime in the end the 80s/early 90s.
As per his account, he did it first during the full dress rehearsal when the Gurdwara was pleasantly surprised. When he did it again on the actual parade the contingent was pleasantly surprised by the shower of Rose petals by the spectators from both sides - the petals provided by the Gurdwara. This tradition has been set since then.