India marks 76th Republic Day with military, cultural showcase

By Ahmad Adil

NEW DELHI (AA) – India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on Sunday with a display of military strength and cultural diversity, marking a significant milestone for the South Asian nation.

President Droupadi Murmu led the celebrations, taking the salute from marching contingents on Kartavya Path, a redesigned colonial-era avenue in the heart of New Delhi, formerly known as Rajpath. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto attended as the event's chief guest.

Republic Day marks Jan. 26, 1950, when India adopted its Constitution, completing its transition to a republic after gaining independence from British rule in 1947.

Officials said some 10,000 special guests from various walks of life were invited to witness the parade.

The Indian Army showcased advanced weaponry, including the T-90 tank, Nag missile system, BrahMos missile system, and Pinaka multi-launcher rocket system, among others, as contingents marched down Kartavya Path.

Tableaux from 16 states and union territories highlighted India's cultural and regional diversity.

The ceremony began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute at the National War Memorial, followed by the unfurling of the national flag and a 21-gun salute.

Modi also extended his greetings on Republic Day.

“Today, we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured that our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity and unity,” he wrote on X. “May this occasion strengthen our efforts toward preserving the ideals of our Constitution and working toward a stronger and prosperous India.”

*Aamir Latif from Pakistan contributed to this story.