Every year on January 26th, the nation’s heart swells with pride as the Republic Day Parade unfolds along the historic Kartavya Path in New Delhi. This year, the 2025 celebration shone brighter than ever—rich in culture, tradition, and innovation. But behind the resplendent tableaux, the marching contingents, and the roar of patriotic fervor, there is a dedicated team of voices ensuring that every moment resonates across the country.
The Unsung Heroes of Republic Day
The parade’s magnificence is not just in the spectacle of disciplined marching or the flutter of the tricolor—it’s also in the words and emotions conveyed by the official commentators. Often unseen but always heard, these men and women lend their voices to narrate the unfolding scenes, share historical context, and highlight key details about each contingent, dance performance, and technological showcase.
Their role is crucial:
- Bridging the Distance: Millions of citizens, whether in India or abroad, rely on these commentators to experience the grandeur of Republic Day from their homes.
- Weaving History and Context: From the heroic sagas of our armed forces to the cultural richness of each state’s tableau, the commentary provides depth and perspective.
- Stoking National Pride: The enthusiasm and passion in their voices bring the patriotic spirit alive, ensuring that viewers do not just watch but feel each moment.
Bringing the Parade to Life
This year’s commentary team, guided by the PRODefDehradun, spent weeks—sometimes months—meticulously planning their scripts. From learning about the significance of the newly inducted military equipment to understanding the unique cultural elements of various states, they left no stone unturned to make sure their words matched the visual splendor on the ground.
- Extensive Research
- The team collaborated with defense officials, cultural experts, and state representatives to gather accurate information.
- They studied historical archives, visited regimental centers, and interviewed parade participants to glean firsthand stories.
- Script and Guidance
- Under the thoughtful guidance of PRO Defence Dehradun, the commentary script was refined and updated to reflect the latest additions and ceremonial protocols.
- Every word and phrase was chosen to ensure clarity, authenticity, and respect for tradition.
- Balancing Tradition and Innovation
- While honoring the time-tested elements of the parade—like the gallantry award winners and the beating retreat ceremony—the commentators also highlighted new technological displays, modern defense equipment, and progressive initiatives introduced in 2025.
- This balance showcased India’s deep-rooted heritage alongside its forward-looking achievements.
Voice Behind the Microphone
Though the live coverage often flashes images of the grand salute and the President’s motorcade, the commentators themselves rarely come into view. Yet, they form the narrative backbone of the telecast. Among these voices are:
- Veteran Broadcasters: Some have been associated with Republic Day commentary for decades, bringing seasoned insight and a comforting sense of continuity.
- Defence Officers: Serving senior officers from Indian Army Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
- Cultural Enthusiasts: Commentators well-versed in India’s artistic and linguistic diversity, who help audiences appreciate the richness of each state’s tableau.
The Magic of Live Coverage
Delivering real-time commentary for an event of this magnitude is a high-pressure endeavor. Moments before going on air, the commentators can be seen:
- Rechecking the order of contingents.
- Confirming last-minute changes in timing or lineup.
- Practicing pronunciations of names from different regions.
- Steadying their nerves to capture the right pitch and tone for every significant moment—from the solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial to the cheerful performances by schoolchildren.
A Salute to Their Contribution
So, as the tricolor flutters in the January breeze and the nation stands united in celebration, let us remember to salute these incredible voices behind the grand celebration at #KartavyaPath. Their commentary brought the #majestic parade to life and helped capture the true #spirit of our nation—every echo of the marching bands, every note of patriotic fervor, and every proud moment of recognition for our armed forces and cultural heritage.
Their tireless work, in-depth research, and heartfelt narration ensure that the meaning of Republic Day resonates in every home—from bustling metros to the remotest corners of the country. Through their lens of words, we are not just watching the parade; we are living it.
