After the conclusion of the 76th Republic Day celebrations, the iconic Beating Retreat ceremony took place at Vijaya Chowk in New Delhi. The synchronized performances by the personnel of three armed forces and Central Armed Police Forces, along with the 30 foot-tapping tunes played by the bands, left the audience mesmerized. President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other dignitaries were present to witness the ceremony, which marked the end of the Republic Day festivities in India.
Vijay Chowk: A Haven of Triumph and National Pride
Vijay Chowk, a historic intersection in the heart of Delhi, India, serves as the symbolic endpoint of the majestic Rajpath, a grand boulevard connecting India Gate to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. This iconic landmark bears witness to a rich history and is the setting for several prestigious events, including the annual Republic Day parade and the Beating Retreat ceremony.
A Monument to Triumph
Vijay Chowk was constructed in 1929 as part of the imperial beautification project of New Delhi. The name "Vijay" translates to "victory" in Hindi, a fitting tribute to the Indian soldiers who fought bravely in World War I. The centerpiece of Vijay Chowk is the India Gate, a majestic war memorial commemorating the 90,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War.
Beating the Retreat Ceremony
The pinnacle of the Republic Day festivities is the Beating Retreat ceremony, held annually on January 29th at Vijay Chowk. This vibrant spectacle showcases the precision and camaraderie of the Indian Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces, and the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Hundreds of spectators gather around the historic chowk, captivated by the synchronized performances and the stirring tunes played by the massed bands. The ceremony culminates in the "Saare Jahan Se Achcha," a patriotic song considered the unofficial national anthem of India.
Other Events and Significance
Vijay Chowk is not only a site of national celebrations but also plays a pivotal role in the daily life of Delhi. The intersection serves as a crucial traffic hub, connecting Rajpath with Janpath, one of the city's busiest shopping streets.
During the Republic Day parade, Vijay Chowk is transformed into a display of military might and cultural splendor. The parade showcases the latest advancements in Indian military equipment and features colorful tableaux from various states and ministries, representing the country's diverse heritage.
Top 5 FAQs about Vijay Chowk
What is the history behind Vijay Chowk?
When does the Beating Retreat ceremony take place?
Who attends the Beating Retreat ceremony?
What is the significance of Vijay Chowk?
What other events are held at Vijay Chowk?
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the Aam Aadmi Party's 'Budget' Patra campaign, emphasizing the savings of up to ₹35,000 per month for Delhi families under AAP's governance. Kejriwal warned that if the BJP came to power, they would discontinue all the welfare schemes implemented by AAP, such as free electricity, water, education, and bus travel. He also unveiled new initiatives, including benefits for women, students, and senior citizens, expected to further add ₹8,000-₹10,000 in monthly savings. AAP workers will visit households to fill out the 'Bachat Patra' and inform residents about the financial benefits provided by the party.
The Budget Session of Parliament started off with a controversy as Congress leader Sonia Gandhi made remarks about President Droupadi Murmu's address. The BJP demanded an apology, stating that the President was a tribal woman who should not be underestimated. However, Congress has defended Gandhi's statement, stating that she meant no disrespect and was only expressing empathy for the President's health. This incident has fueled tensions between the two political parties, further highlighting their ideological differences.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly criticised Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for their recent comments towards India's first tribal woman President Droupadi Murmu. Referring to Sonia's remarks as "reprehensible" and Rahul's comment as "offensive," Majhi denounced their words as an insult to President Murmu and a direct attack on the tribal and marginalized communities she represents. He has called for a formal apology from the Congress leadership and has been joined by many political figures across the country in support of President Murmu.
President Murmu, in her joint address to Parliament, highlighted the government's initiatives for the tribal community, including the 'Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan'. She also reiterated the government's commitment to the middle class and reflected on the nation's constitutional journey, commemorating the recent 75-year milestones.
In a historic event, three Shankaracharyas from prominent Hindu Peeths released a 27-point 'Dharmadesh' at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. The directive highlights the importance of protecting the cow as the "Mother of the Nation" and calls for the recognition of religious education as a fundamental right of Hindus. The Shankaracharyas also extended their blessings to the UP government for successfully organising the grand event, which is expected to witness a footfall of around 40 crore pilgrims.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praises Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 10-year tenure, saying it marks the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. He predicts that India will become the world's 3rd largest economy by 2027, up from the previous 11th spot. Shah also shares data on the government's efforts to improve the lives of the public, including providing housing, sanitation, and healthcare. He highlights Modi's focus on cleanliness and the successful electrification of 2500 villages.
US President Donald Trump declared a national tragedy after a commercial American Eagle plane crashed into an Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River, resulting in multiple fatalities. The rescue efforts have now shifted to a recovery mission, with 27 bodies recovered so far and more expected to be found. While the cause of the crash is still unclear, Trump used the opportunity to criticize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and blamed previous administrations for their diversity hiring policies.
The Election Commission of India has demanded that former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal provide factual evidence for his allegation that Yamuna water has been poisoned. The Commission has given a deadline for Kejriwal to submit the evidence, and warned that if he fails to do so, appropriate action will be taken. Kejriwal has accused the Commission of being biased and has refused to comply with their demands.
As India celebrated the coming of its Constitution on 26 January 1950, there were polarizing sentiments among its citizens. While Nehru and Ambedkar led the country towards progress and democratic values, Hindu Nationalists were critical of the Constitution, citing its lack of connection to "Indian values". However, political events such as the Shah Bano case and the implementation of the Mandal Commission report gave way for Hindu nationalists to push their agenda, resulting in communal violence and discrimination against religious minorities, particularly Muslims. This has led to the spread of fear and the formation of Muslim ghettos in various cities across India.
A Pakistani court has dismissed a petition by Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation seeking to rename Shadman Chowk Lahore after the freedom fighter and place his statue there. The court upheld the decision of the local corporation, which cited a retired military officer's claim that Singh was a "criminal" and not a revolutionary. The foundation plans to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.