The Unknown Facts of the Republic Day Parade
The Republic Day Parade is the result of months of secret planning, discipline and strict timing. Behind the celebration lies deep security, training and coordination at every level.
Every year on 26th January, India celebrates Republic Day with a grand parade full of colour, rhythm and pride. What people see for a few hours is only the final result of months of strict planning, discipline and silent effort.
Nearly two lakh people attend the Republic Day Parade every year. Preparations begin around March and continue until January. The Ceremonial Division of the Ministry of Defence organises the event and coordinates with more than 70 organisations. Nothing is left to chance and every second is carefully controlled.
The parade officially begins after the President arrives and the President’s Body Guard gives the salute. During the national anthem, only seven old army guns called 25 pounders are used. Each gun fires three times, completing the 21-gun salute in exactly 52 seconds, perfectly matching the anthem.
Security is extremely tight. Around 35,000 security personnel are deployed. Buildings near the route are evacuated a day earlier, rooftops are guarded, plainclothes officers mix with the crowd and sniffer dogs patrol the area.
For soldiers, the day begins at 2 am. Training starts at home bases between July and August, and final rehearsals begin in Delhi from December. Each soldier completes nearly 600 hours of practice.
Tanks and armoured vehicles undergo multiple checks and inspections. During rehearsals, contingents march up to 12 kilometres. Even soldiers pass through four levels of security checks.
In 2026, animals including camels, ponies, raptors and army dogs will take part. The parade ends with a flypast by 41 aircraft, decided at the last moment based on weather. Behind the parade lies unmatched discipline and dedication.
