February 21, 2025
Republic Day 2025: A celebration of heritage, progress, and national pride
Special Report

Republic Day 2025: A celebration of heritage, progress, and national pride

India’s 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, will be a grand celebration of the nation’s democratic values, rich heritage, and its forward-looking aspirations. The theme for this year, Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas (Golden India: Heritage and Development), reflects the dual focus of the nation on both preserving its rich traditions and embracing modern progress. The event will showcase India’s journey from the past to the future, with an emphasis on unity, strength, and innovation.

This year’s Republic Day celebrations will be graced by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who will be the Chief Guest for the occasion. His presence symbolizes the growing ties between India and Indonesia and adds an international dimension to the celebrations. One of the key highlights of this year’s celebrations is the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, where several states, union territories, and ministries will present their stunning tableaus. These artistic displays will illustrate India’s cultural heritage, technological progress, and societal initiatives, each contributing to the theme of ‘Virasat aur Vikas’ (Heritage and Development). Here’s a look at the tableaus that are set to take center stage this year:

Uttar Pradesh’s Tableau: Maha Kumbh 2025 – Golden India: Heritage and Development

Uttar Pradesh’s tableau will shine the spotlight on the upcoming Maha Kumbh 2025, a UNESCO-recognized spiritual event in Prayagraj. At the forefront of the tableau will be a grand replica of the ‘Amrit Kalash’, symbolizing the divine nectar. Surrounding it will be representations of saints, sages, and devotees, along with LED screens displaying scenes from the Samudra Manthan myth. The tableau will also highlight the role of technology, such as the Integrated Command and Control Center, in organizing this colossal event.

Lakhpati Didi Scheme: Empowering Rural Women

The Rural Development Ministry will present a tableau that celebrates the Lakhpati Didi scheme, which has empowered over 1.15 crore women across rural India by ensuring they earn a minimum annual income of Rs. 1 lakh. The tableau will feature women engaged in various livelihood activities such as dairy farming, handicrafts, and agriculture. This showcase will emphasize how government initiatives promote entrepreneurship, financial self-sufficiency, and education among rural women.

India Meteorological Department (IMD): A 150-Year Legacy

The IMD will debut its tableau to mark its 150 years of service to the nation. The tableau will showcase the department’s role in weather prediction, disaster management, and climate awareness. From cyclone awareness efforts to mobile weather alerts for farmers, the tableau will reflect how the IMD has saved lives and empowered communities through timely weather services and innovation.

Jharkhand: A Tribute to Ratan Tata’s Vision

Jharkhand’s tableau will honor industrialist Ratan Tata, whose vision helped shape the state’s industrial landscape. The tableau will feature Jamshedpur, India’s first steel city, and highlight the state’s industrial development and cultural richness. Traditional tribal arts like Sohrai and Khobar paintings, along with the UNESCO-recognized Chhau Dance, will be integral to the tableau, symbolizing the blending of progress with heritage.

DRDO’s Technological Innovations

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will showcase its cutting-edge defense technologies, including missile systems, radar equipment, and drones, in its tableau. The Raksha Kavach multi-layer protection system will be a prominent feature, along with other key innovations aimed at strengthening national security and supporting India’s Make in India initiative.

IAF’s Spectacular Flypast

The Indian Air Force will present a breathtaking aerial display, involving 40 aircraft, including 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft, and seven helicopters. These aircraft will operate from 10 different bases, flying in 12 different formations. Some key formations include ‘Dhwaj’, ‘Ajay’, ‘Satluj’, and ‘Katar’. Five Jaguar aircraft will perform in the arrow formation, while six Rafale fighter jets will fly in the Vajraang formation. The grand finale will feature the Rafale jets performing a ‘Vertical Charlie’ formation, leaving spectators in awe. The IAF contingent, which will be part of the parade, will march to the tune of ‘Sound Barrier’ played by the IAF band.

A Grand Display of India’s Strength and Diversity

The 2025 Republic Day celebrations will be a fitting tribute to India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation while honoring its past. With a perfect blend of military strength, cultural diversity, and technological innovation, the parade and its tableaus will present a vivid picture of the country’s growth, unity, and vision for the future. The celebrations will culminate in the Beating The Retreat ceremony on January 29, where the IAF Band will perform memorable tunes, bringing the celebrations to a close.

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