India marks Republic Day with French president as chief guest

By Ahmad Adil

NEW DELHI (AA) - India on Friday celebrated its 75th Republic Day, with the main event in New Delhi showcasing cultural diversity and military prowess.

French President Emmanuel Macron was the chief guest at the parade that marched the Kartavya Path – a revamped colonial avenue, formerly known as Rajpath in New Delhi on Friday morning.

Republic Day commemorates Jan. 26, 1950, the adoption of the country's constitution. In 1947, India obtained independence from British rule.

People from all walks of life come together weaving a “tapestry of unity and shared sense of patriotism and collective pride,” according to the Indian government, which noted that around 13,000 special guests were invited to witness the parade this year.

Indian President Droupadi Murmu, who led the nation in celebrating the Republic Day parade, took the salute from several columns. Keeping the tradition, the national flag was unfurled followed by the national anthem with a booming 21-gun salute.

The parade also witnessed a march past by a combined band and marching contingent of the French Armed Forces. Tableaux of 16 states and union territories also rolled down the Kartavya Path, showcasing India’s cultural diversity and creativity.

Marching down the Kartavya Path for the first time on Friday was also an all-women Tri-Service contingent, according to the Indian Defense Ministry.

Friday's event concluded with the “Fly-past” which commenced with an air show by 54 aircraft and helicopters, which also included three aircraft from the French Air and Space Force.

In Delhi, thousands of security personnel were also deployed with enhanced security measures to cover the main event.