Dear Editor,
I write to congratulate India on the occasion of her 62nd Republic Day which was celebrated last Wednesday, Jan 26, in the capital of Delhi with a colourful parade of the country’s rich cultural diversity, its scientific and technological prowess, and the might of its military, all of which were on full display on the magnificent Rajpath. India has been generous to Guyana (with financial aid, scholarships, etc) and we should salute the nation on her Republic Day.
It was an impressive parade. Armed forces in battle regalia with artillery, backed by tanks, helicopters and fighter jets above, marched down the thoroughfare connecting the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the historic India Gate as President Pratibha Patil took the salute from the contingents. There were fascinating tableaux depicting the diverse culture of the country as well as prominent personalities like the late poet Rabindranauth Tagore. There was a focus this year on saving the environment and the tiger which is on course to becoming extinct.
The parade was watched by the Republic Day chief guest Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, millions on the streets, and tens of millions on TV.
As is customary on this day, the Prime Minister and the chiefs of the army, navy and air force laid wreaths at ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti,’ the World War I memorial at India Gate, where an eternal flame burns in memory of those who laid down their lives defending India and Britain.
Yours faithfully,
Vishnu Bisram
