Republic Day 2024: Celebrating 75 Years of India’s Constitution

NEW DELHI, India — On January 26, 2024, India marked its 75th Republic Day with a vibrant display of military might, cultural heritage, and national pride along the majestic Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The celebrations, commemorating the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, drew thousands of spectators and featured French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, underscoring the deepening ties between India and France. The event, steeped in symbolism, showcased India’s journey as a democratic powerhouse and its aspirations for a developed future.

The day began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tributes at the National War Memorial, followed by the arrival of President Droupadi Murmu and Macron in a ceremonial British-era horse-drawn carriage, a tradition revived after 40 years. The parade, themed “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat—Loktantra Ki Matruka” (India—Mother of Democracy), highlighted India’s progress and democratic ethos. A historic first, the parade was heralded by over 100 women artists playing traditional instruments like sankh, naadswaram, and nagada, replacing the usual military bands and symbolizing India’s growing “Nari Shakti” (women power).

The parade featured a spectacular array of military contingents, including an all-women tri-services group, reflecting gender inclusivity in India’s defense forces. Tanks, missile systems, and advanced weaponry rolled down Kartavya Path, while a flypast of 54 aircraft, including French Rafale jets alongside Indian ones, captivated onlookers. A 95-member French marching contingent and a 30-member band from the French Foreign Legion, which included six Indian soldiers, added an international flair. “A great honor for France. Thank you, India,” Macron posted on X, expressing gratitude for the invitation

Macron’s presence as chief guest, marking France’s sixth time in this role, highlighted the strong Indo-French strategic partnership, celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024. His visit, which began in Jaipur on January 25 with a roadshow alongside Modi, included tours of cultural landmarks like Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar. In Delhi, Macron attended the “At Home” reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a state banquet hosted by President Murmu. “This visit strengthens the bonds of friendship and trust between our nations,” Modi said, emphasizing the reciprocal gesture following his own participation in France’s Bastille Day in 2023.

The parade also showcased India’s cultural diversity through vibrant tableaux from various states, depicting achievements in technology, space exploration, and indigenous craftsmanship. The inclusion of a tableau celebrating India as the “Mother of Democracy” resonated with the 77,000-strong audience, including 42,000 public invitees. Over 14,000 security personnel ensured safety amid the winter chill and mist.

This Republic Day reflects India’s unity in diversity and its commitment to progress,” said Anita Sharma, a Delhi-based historian. “The participation of women and international allies like France sends a powerful message of inclusivity and global cooperation.” However, Amnesty International raised concerns about India’s human rights record, urging Macron to address these issues during his visit, adding a note of contention to the diplomatic warmth.

As the parade concluded with the national anthem and a 21-gun salute, the celebrations underscored India’s journey since adopting its Constitution 75 years ago. Macron’s attendance, coupled with the display of military prowess and cultural richness, signaled India’s growing global stature. Looking forward, the event sets the stage for continued diplomatic engagements, with the Indo-French partnership poised to deepen in defense, trade, and cultural exchanges. For a nation rooted in its democratic ideals, Republic Day 2024 was a proud moment, blending tradition with ambition on a global stage.