As central Delhi lit up and military bands marched in perfect sync, the Beating Retreat ceremony marked the quiet yet powerful end of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, with the President and Prime Minister in attendance at Vijay Chowk.
The ceremony featured a coordinated performance by bands from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force
New Delhi: The traditional Beating Retreat ceremony, marking the formal conclusion of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, was held on Thursday evening at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi. The ceremonial event was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and several other Union Ministers.
The presence of the Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force added to the solemnity of the occasion, which showcased India’s military traditions, discipline and national pride.
At the start of the ceremony, President Murmu was accorded a national salute by the armed forces. This was followed by the hoisting of the national flag, after which the strains of the national anthem echoed across Vijay Chowk.
The historic buildings surrounding Vijay Chowk, including those along Kartavya Path and Raisina Hill, were illuminated with colourful lighting, creating a majestic backdrop for the ceremony.
The Beating Retreat ceremony is a time-honoured military tradition that dates back several centuries. It signifies the end of formal Republic Day events and symbolises a transition from ceremonial celebrations to peace and routine vigilance.
The ceremony featured synchronised marching drills and musical performances by bands of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, who played a selection of patriotic tunes and martial marches. The flawless coordination of the troops and musicians highlighted the discipline and professionalism of India’s armed forces.
Beyond its visual grandeur, the ceremony carries deep symbolic meaning. It represents peace after readiness, honouring the armed forces’ commitment to protecting the nation while celebrating unity and pride.
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For many spectators, the Beating Retreat remains one of the most evocative moments of the Republic Day calendar, blending tradition with national emotion.
In view of the event, the Delhi Traffic Police imposed restrictions across central Delhi on January 29. Vijay Chowk was closed to general traffic from 2:00 pm to 9:30 pm, with diversions enforced on key roads including Kartavya Path, Rafi Marg, Raisina Road, Krishna Menon Marg, Dara Shikoh Road, and areas around Sunehri Masjid.
Commuters were advised to avoid central Delhi during the restricted hours and use alternate routes such as Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, Madarsa T-Point, and Safdarjung Road to ensure smooth traffic movement.
