Highlights of the 2025 Republic Day Parade: President Murmu’s Buggy and the First Tri-Services Tableau

India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, with a grand parade in New Delhi, showcasing the country’s military strength and cultural diversity. This year’s parade featured notable firsts and revivals, making it a truly remarkable event. Here are the four highlights of the day:

1. President Droupadi Murmu’s Arrival in a Traditional Buggy

One of the most striking visuals of the parade was President Droupadi Murmu’s arrival in a traditional, gold-plated horse-drawn buggy. The President, along with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, was escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army.

This traditional mode of transportation was a return to old practices. Between 1984 and 2024, the President's movements were made in black limousines. However, in 2024, President Murmu revived the use of the buggy during her arrival with French President Emmanuel Macron.

The buggy, which had been discontinued after Indira Gandhi's assassination, symbolizes India’s rich heritage. Its black carriage, adorned with gold embossing and the national emblem, added a regal touch to the ceremony.

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2. Tableaux Showcasing Culture, Nature, and History

The parade’s tableaux display is always a highlight, with states and ministries presenting their heritage and achievements. This year’s standout themes included:

- Uttar Pradesh’s Tableau: Showcased the Kumbh Mela, depicting sadhus and the legendary Samudra Manthan, the churning of the ocean believed to have resulted in the amrit (elixir of immortality).

- Madhya Pradesh’s Tableau: Featured cheetahs symbolizing the state’s cheetah revival project at Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary.

- Andhra Pradesh’s Tableau: Highlighted Etikoppaka Bommalu, eco-friendly wooden toys reflecting sustainable and traditional craftsmanship.

These tableaux combined cultural heritage with environmental awareness, reflecting the parade's theme of unity in diversity.

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3. India’s First Tri-Services Tableau

This year witnessed the debut of a Tri-services tableau with the theme “Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat” (Strong and Secure India). The tableau depicted a Joint Operations Room, showcasing the synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force in multi-domain operations.

Key features included:

- Indigenous Arjun Main Battle Tank

- Tejas MK-II Fighter Aircraft

- INS Visakhapatnam, a modern destroyer

- Advanced Light Helicopter

- A Remotely Piloted Aircraft

The tableau exemplified India’s military advancements and the growing emphasis on indigenous defense capabilities, earning widespread applause.

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4. First-Ever Indonesian Contingent at the Parade

In keeping with tradition, a foreign contingent marched in the parade, this time from Indonesia—the home country of the Republic Day Chief Guest, President Prabowo Subianto.

The Indonesian contingent, comprising 352 members, participated with a marching band and demonstrated military precision and camaraderie. This was the first time an Indonesian contingent joined India’s Republic Day celebrations, symbolizing the deepening ties between the two nations.

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Conclusion

The 2025 Republic Day Parade was a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, celebrating India’s cultural richness and military prowess. From President Murmu’s iconic buggy ride to the debut of the Tri-services tableau, the event highlighted India’s progress and commitment to preserving its heritage.

As India continues to honor its past while embracing its future, Republic Day remains a reminder of the nation’s strength, unity, and diversity.

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