India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on Sunday with a grand parade along the ceremonial boulevard Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Sixteen tableaux from various states and Union Territories, as well as 15 from central ministries, departments, and organizations, showcased the country’s rich cultural heritage and technological prowess.
Uttar Pradesh’s tableau, highlighting the ongoing Mahakumbh festival and titled “Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas,” secured the top award among all participating states. Tripura followed in second place with “Eternal Reverence: The Worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja,” while Andhra Pradesh’s “Etikoppaka Bommalu – Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys” took third place.
A separate online poll conducted via the MyGov portal saw Gujarat’s tableau emerge as the “Popular Choice” winner, while Uttar Pradesh placed second and Uttarakhand secured the third spot in that category.
Among the military contingents, the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles was adjudged the best marching contingent from the three services, highlighting its discipline and well-executed drill. The Delhi Police contingent won the best marching contingent award among the Central Armed Police Forces and other auxiliary forces.
In the category of tableaux from central ministries and departments, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs won top honors for its depiction of the ongoing Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh. A special prize was awarded to the Central Public Works Department for its display commemorating the 75 years of the Constitution of India. The Jayati Jai Mamah Bharatam dance group also received recognition for its vibrant performance.
Alongside the cultural displays, the parade showcased some of India’s advanced defense technologies, including the BrahMos missile, Pinaka rocket system, Akash air defense missile system, and the army’s battle surveillance system “Sanjay.” The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) tactical missile “Pralay” made its maiden appearance in the parade, underscoring India’s growing defense capabilities.
The Republic Day celebrations concluded with the customary fly-past, featuring a range of aircraft in precision formation, symbolizing the nation’s military might and the culmination of its annual national festivities.
