Dear Editor,
I write to applaud India on the occasion of her 64th Republic Anniversary last Sunday; a reception was hosted by the High Commissioner at the Indian Cultural Centre on Monday to mark the occasion. It was great to see the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader joining in the celebrations given the nature of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Foreign diplomats were on hand for the India celebrations hosted by the President.
In New Delhi, a majestic parade was held in Delhi showcasing the country’s military prowess and cultural diversity. Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the Chief Guest of Honour. He was accompanied by his wife. Security was very tight. The Emperor and Empress of Japan were guests in India last December as India seeks to build relations with Japan. A number of bilateral agreements including joint military exercises are planned – apparently to counter China’s oceanic aggrandisement.
India became a republic on January 26, 1950 after obtaining independence on August 15, 1947. Every year, massive celebrations are held throughout India for Republic Day and this Sunday was no different. Republic Day was celebrated with much enthusiasm especially in the capital, Delhi and other major cities, including Ahmedabad, Gujarat. But the capital is usually the main draw with the parade carried live on TV with the President Pranab Mukherjee saluting the soldiers with tens of thousands of onlookers.
The parade displayed multi-hued images of India’s rich cultural diversity, its achievements in diverse fields and military might. President Pranab, who met with Guyanese contingents in the recent past in New York and in India, took the salute from the armed forces.
The unusually cold weather did not prevent a huge throng of people from showing up. Before the parade began, the heads of various military branches laid a wreath at the national monument dedicated to those who laid down their lives for the nation and at the tomb of the unknown soldier. The parade began shortly after President Pranab and Prime Minister Abe arrived at the saluting base at Rajpath Boulevard, where nearby Gandhi Samadhi burns the eternal flame, escorted by the President’s bodyguards riding bedecked horses.
The large crowd cheered on the performers’ scintillating display of air power, missiles, tanks, new weapons, air transport, and motorcycle, helicopter and jet fighter stunts. One was impressed with the fascinating tableaux depicting the diverse culture of the multi-ethnic nation.
The President distributed medals of bravery to selected members of the armed forces for their exceptional courage as well as to civilians, who have distinguished themselves by their acts of valour and achievements in humanity, arts and sciences.
Congratulations are truly in order to India on the occasion of its 64th Republic Anniversary.
Yours faithfully,
Vishnu Bisram
