The 76th Republic Day celebrations in India ended on a high note with the magnificent Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk. Distinguished guests, including the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister, graced the event with their presence. This year's Republic Day highlighted the country's 75th year of Constitution, showcasing unity and cultural diversity. As part of the government's efforts to promote 'Jan Bhagidari,' 10,000 special guests attended the parade, symbolizing the country's progress towards a 'Swarnim Bharat.' Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's presence as the Chief Guest added significance to the celebrations.
Vijay Chowk: A Symbol of Republic Day Celebrations
Vijay Chowk, a prominent intersection in the heart of New Delhi, holds immense significance as the venue for the grand Beating Retreat ceremony, marking the culmination of the Republic Day festivities in India. This iconic event showcases the nation's vibrant culture, military prowess, and unwavering spirit.
Background
Vijay Chowk, meaning "Victory Square," was named in commemoration of India's victory in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. The square was designed by renowned architect Edwin Lutyens as part of the grand layout of New Delhi, the new capital of British India. Vijay Chowk features a large circular space surrounded by imposing buildings, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace), the North Block (housing the Prime Minister's Office), and the South Block (housing the Ministry of Defence).
Beating Retreat Ceremony
The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk is a spectacular spectacle that draws thousands of visitors and dignitaries. Held on the evening of January 29, the event symbolizes the formal withdrawal of the armed forces after the Republic Day parade.
The ceremony commences with a performance by the massed bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces. These bands play patriotic tunes and marching melodies, creating a thrilling atmosphere. A highlight of the event is the performance of the "Retreat" bugle call, which signifies the end of the day's festivities.
Significance
The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk embodies the pride and unity of the Indian people. It is a testament to the nation's military prowess, cultural diversity, and the spirit of patriotism that binds the country together. The presence of dignitaries, including the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister, underscores the importance of the event.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1: When is the Beating Retreat ceremony held? A1: It is held on the evening of January 29, the day after Republic Day.
Q2: Where is the Beating Retreat ceremony held? A2: It is held at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi.
Q3: Who attends the Beating Retreat ceremony? A3: It is attended by dignitaries including the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and other invited guests.
Q4: What is the significance of the Beating Retreat ceremony? A4: It symbolizes the formal withdrawal of the armed forces after the Republic Day parade and showcases the nation's military prowess, cultural diversity, and spirit of patriotism.
Q5: What are the highlights of the Beating Retreat ceremony? A5: Highlights include the performance by the massed bands of the Indian armed forces, the playing of patriotic tunes and marching melodies, and the "Retreat" bugle call.
During an Eid al-Fitr prayer speech, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan used strong language, calling for the destruction of Israel. He also referred to Allah as "al-Qahhar" and wished for mercy upon martyrs and a speedy recovery for veterans. In his nationwide holiday message, Erdogan criticized the ongoing violence in Gaza and called for action from Western countries. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar responded to Erdogan's statements, condemning him as antisemitic and dangerous to the region and his own people.
Inspector Rakesh Tripathi and his team were met with hostility from villagers during a motorcycle recovery operation in Telenga village, Odisha. The suspects managed to escape, prompting an intensified manhunt from authorities. The incident illustrates ongoing tensions within local communities and the need for cooperation to ensure justice is served.
The Arab countries of UAE and Saudi Arabia have officially declared the start of Eid-ul-Fitr today, concluding the holy month of Ramadan. In India, Eid is likely to be celebrated tomorrow, with the exact date depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. As families and friends come together to celebrate, here are some WhatsApp messages to share with loved ones.
After a month of fasting during Ramadan, the crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, signaling the end of the holy month. Muslims living in Gulf countries will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on March 30, 2025 with traditional prayers, charity, gift-giving, feasting, and visiting relatives. More than just a religious holiday, Eid ul Fitr is a celebration of love, gratitude, and family unity that Muslims around the world look forward to every year.
In response to two devastating earthquakes hitting Myanmar, India has launched ‘Operation Brahma’ to send 15 tonnes of relief material. The aid was transported by an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft and includes tents, blankets, food packets, and essential medicines. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered assistance and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar shared visuals of the aid arriving in Yangon. India acted as a “first responder” to assist the people of Myanmar in the aftermath of the natural disaster.
In British Columbia, a young woman's marriage to a member of an India-based "cult group" has been annulled by a judge, who ruled that she did not truly consent to the 2023 wedding. The woman claimed to have been manipulated and overwhelmed by the man and his family's constant advances, which even included bringing a religious gift to her workplace. The ruling sheds light on the often-hidden issue of forced marriages in certain religious communities and the legal recourse available to those who have been coerced into marriage.
Two massive earthquakes, measuring 7.7 and 6.4 magnitude, hit Myanmar and Thailand on Friday afternoon, killing over 650 people and injuring more than 1,600. This disaster also caused significant damage to buildings, bridges, and a monastery in the region. The Myanmar government has requested international assistance, and the United Nations has allocated USD 5 million for relief efforts. India has also joined in with their humanitarian aid through #OperationBrahma.
A massive earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 has rocked central Myanmar, according to the United States Geological Survey. In the aftermath of the disaster, video footage captured people crouching in fear on the tarmac at Mandalay airport. This devastating event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and destructive power of natural disasters.
The powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake that hit Myanmar on Friday caused a fire and heavy damage at Mandalay University and has left at least 20 people reported dead. The impact was felt in neighboring countries, with tremors being felt as far as Bangkok, Thailand. The earthquake also triggered an emergency situation at a major hospital in Naypyidaw and caused disruption in the stock exchange.
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck Myanmar on Friday, causing tremors to be felt in nearby countries such as India and Thailand. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to express his concerns and offer assistance to affected countries. The USGS reported the epicenter to be 12 km from Sagaing, Myanmar, and a third aftershock has been recorded following the initial 7.2 magnitude earthquake. A video has also emerged showing the moment a Bangkok skyscraper collapsed due to the earthquake.