Republic Day Parade, Delhi 2024
Republic Day honored the date of 26th January 1949, when the Constitution of India came into force. This date marked India’s identity as a republic nation, and thus, to honor that, the Republic Day Parade is held at Rajpath in New Delhi every year. It showcases India’s Defense Capability and Cultural and Social Heritage. Thousands of people join the parade to make it one of the year’s memorable events. From processions to fighter jets formation, Republic Day Parade in Delhi is a sight that makes you truly proud to be an Indian.
If you wish to eye-witness the parade and explore the capital, then book a Delhi tour package with Indian Holiday. Before that, here is detailed information about the Republic Day Parade. Take a look.
When is the Republic Day Parade held?
The Republic Day Parade is held every year on the 26th of January. It starts sharp at 9:30 a.m. after flag hoisting and continues for three hours
Where is the Republic Day Parade held?
The Republic Day Parade takes place along Rajpath in Delhi. Its route is more than five kilometers long. The parade sets out from Raisina Hill near Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s Palace) and follows Rajpath past India Gate to the Red Fort.
What happens at the Republic Day Parade?
Let’s take a look at what makes India’s Republic Day Parade in New Delhi the most spectacular regular parade in the world.
- The Republic Day Parade starts with the arrival of the President of India, escorted by a pose of bodyguards on horses.
- Then, the Prime Minister of India lays a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate to pay homage to those who lost their lives in wars.
- Next, the President hosts the National flag as the National Anthem is played, and a 21-gun salute is given.
- Next, important awards like the Paramvir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Children’s National Bravery Award are given away by the President.
- The grand Republic Day Parade is led by the three divisions of the Indian Armed Forces. Nine to twelve different regiments of the Indian Army and the Navy, and Air Force with their bands march past in their uniforms and official decorations.
- The President of India is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces and takes the salute.
- Twelve contingents of various paramilitary forces of India and other civil forces also take part.
- Each Indian state and Union Territory is represented by a different float that highlights an aspect of its culture.
- Almost 25 marching and mounted contingents, various military vehicles, 20 military bands, 30 cultural displays, and 30 aircraft, in addition to cultural performers and 1200 schoolchildren, are in attendance.
India Republic Day Parades in other cities
Not only Delhi, but other cities of India organize parades too.
- Mumbai organizes a glamorous program at Shivaji Park or the Marine Drive.
- A parade and cultural fair are organized in Bangalore at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground.
- In Kolkata, the Republic Day parade takes place along Red Road near the Maidan.
- In Chennai, Kamaraj Salai and Marina Beach are the venues for Republic Day celebrations.
However, Delhi’s Republic Day Parade is the most popular and broadcast on TV and online platforms. So plan a trip to Delhi and participate in this national celebration.
Beating the Retreat Ceremony
The Republic Day Parade is followed up with a Beating the Retreat ceremony on January 29. It symbolizes retreat after a day on the battlefield and features performances by bands of the three wings of the Indian military; the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Where to Get Tickets for the Republic Day Parade
The Republic Day Parade tickets are available from January 10th to 25th. In addition, front row passes are available to VIPs.
Locations to get tickets are:
- India Tourism Development Corporation (IDTC) Travel Counters at Ashok and Janpath Hotels. (Working days only).
- Delhi Tourism Development Corporation (DTDC) Counters at Coffee Home, Baba Kharag Singh Marg, and Food and Craft Bazar, Dilli Haat, opposite INA Market, Shri Gandhi Ashram, Chandni Chowk. (Working days only).
- Departmental Sale Counters at North Block roundabout, South Block roundabout, Pragati Maidan (Gate No. 1, Bhairon Road), Jantar Mantar (Main Gate), Shastri Bhawan (near Gate No. 1), India Gate (near Jamnagar House), Red Fort. (10 a.m. until 5.30 p.m. daily).
- Parliament House Reception Office. (11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday/Sunday/Holiday closed).
- Government of India Tourist Office, Janpath. (Closed Sunday).
Ticket Prices
- Republic Day Parade costs 300 rupees and 150 rupees for reserved seats. INR 50 and INR 10 for unreserved seats.
- The Beating Retreat Ceremony (Full Dress Rehearsal) costs INR 50 and INR 20. All seats are unreserved.
Tips for attending the Indian Republic Day Parade
- Mobile phones, laptops, camera/video cameras, transistors, Digital Diary, Remote-controlled Car-keys, etc., are not allowed.
- Try to arrive as early as possible as the area gets very congested.
- The morning weather in Delhi will be cold, so bring a warm jacket.
How to Reach the Republic Day Parade Venue
The Republic Day Parade is a high-security affair. From Vijay Chowk to Red Fort, the 5 kilometers distance is kept traffic-free. Common people should be prepared for a long, early walk to get to their seats on time. Driving to the venue is not an option for most of the crowd. Nor is getting there by metro as stations near Rajpath are closed for the parade duration. Special invitees display a “Park & Ride” label on their vehicle to enter one of the many designated parking lots. Shuttle services are available till the seating venue.
Contact Indian Holiday today and customize the Delhi tour with our experts as per your interests and budget.
