Mon Jan 27 06:46:20 IST 2025: ## India Celebrates Republic Day with Indonesian Guest of Honor and Military Display
**New Delhi, India** – India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations culminated in a vibrant parade down Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Sunday. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto served as the chief guest for the event, which showcased India’s cultural diversity and military might.
The parade, attended by India’s President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister, featured a notable return to tradition. President Murmu and President Subianto were transported in a historic, gold-plated horse-drawn buggy, a vehicle last used before 1984.
Tableaux representing various Indian states highlighted the nation’s cultural heritage. Uttar Pradesh depicted the Kumbh Mela, Madhya Pradesh showcased its cheetah reintroduction project, and Andhra Pradesh presented traditional wooden toys. A first-time Tri-services tableau, themed “Strong and Secure India,” demonstrated the coordinated capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing indigenous military technology.
Adding an international flair, a 352-member Indonesian contingent participated in the parade, marking the first time an Indonesian military unit has been involved in the Republic Day celebrations. A French Army contingent, including a musical band, also participated, continuing a tradition begun in 2016.
The Republic Day parade, a significant national event, coincided with heightened political activity in Delhi, where elections are approaching. The ruling BJP is actively campaigning, targeting middle and upper-middle-class voters through local outreach programs.
First Piper 