Vijay Chowk reverberates with Indian tunes during Beating Retreat ceremony
New Delhi, January 29
The iconic Vijay Chowk reverberated with captivating Indian tunes on Thursday as the Beating Retreat ceremony marked the culmination of the 77th Republic Day celebrations.
The bands of the Indian Army, the Indian Navy, the Indian Air Force and the Central Armed Police Forces played foot-tapping melodies. People cheered and applauded the synchronised marches as soldiers formed various shapes, some drawn from Indian traditions.
The ceremony began with the massed band's 'Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja',
Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, arrived for the ceremony. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several other Union Ministers were among those present.
PM Modi earlier said that the 'Beating Retreat' ceremony reflects the "strength of India's rich military heritage".
He said that the ceremony showcases the traditions, discipline and valour of the Indian armed forces, who remain steadfast in safeguarding the nation.
"This evening, the Beating Retreat ceremony will be held. It symbolises the conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations. In it, the strength of India's rich military heritage will be displayed. We are extremely proud of our armed forces who are dedicated to the defence of the country. Eko bahunamsi manya edita visham visham yuddhaya san shishaadhi," PM Modi said in a post on X.
The 'Beating Retreat' ceremony traces its origins to military traditions and features massed bands of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force performing patriotic and classical tunes, creating a solemn and stirring atmosphere.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The synchronisation is absolutely mind-blowing. I watched it on TV with my family, and even my kids were mesmerized. It's wonderful to see such a proud tradition being carried forward with so much grace and power.
While the ceremony is beautiful, I do wish there was a bit more focus on the classical tunes from different regions of India. Our military heritage is diverse, and the music could reflect that even more. Still, a proud moment for every Indian.
The Beating Retreat is the perfect culmination to Republic Day. The sight of the soldiers marching in perfect harmony to Indian tunes at Vijay Chowk... it's pure magic. It fills your heart with an indescribable sense of patriotism. Salute to our forces!
My grandfather served in the Army, and watching this ceremony was always a big deal in our house. It connects generations. The tunes, the discipline – it’s a living tradition. More power to our armed forces!
The precision is incredible, on par with any military ceremony I've seen globally. The fusion of the traditional military pageantry with distinctly Indian music is what makes it unique and so special. A powerful symbol of national unity.
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