Bhairav Commandos, Battle Arrays & Rare Beasts steal spotlight at India's 77th Republic Day Parade

India's 77th Republic Day parade unfolded at Kartavya Path, showcasing eight unprecedented highlights that blended military innovation with cultural pride. Prime Minister Narendra Modi began proceedings by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, followed by President Droupadi Murmu unfurling the national flag amid a 21-gun salute from indigenous guns. The parade introduced the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, trained for extreme terrains, marching alongside the Shaktibaan Regiment in a first-ever phased battle array formation representing tri-services jointness after Operation Sindoor.

Rare animals from the Remount & Veterinary Corps made their debut, including Zanskar ponies from high altitudes, Bactrian camels for desert operations, and an Army Dog Squad with raptors. The Assam Regiment displayed its rhino emblem and "Rhino Charge" war cry, while a Mixed Scouts Contingent of 144 from Arunachal, Sikkim, Ladakh and other regions wore sub-zero uniforms. Advanced platforms like BrahMos, Akash missiles, Suryastra rocket launchers and Arjun tanks highlighted India's self-reliance.

The flypast thrilled crowds with 29 aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Apache, LCH Prachand, ALH, Mi-17, C-130 and C-295, ending with Mi-17 helicopters in Dhwaj formation showering petals. Cultural displays under the theme "Swatantrata Ka Mantra: Vande Mataram" featured 30 state tableaux, like Maharashtra's tribute to Ahilyabai Holkar, 2,500 artistes in "Vividhata Mein Ekta" and 10,000 special guests. President Murmu awarded the Ashoka Chakra to astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and praised Operation Sindoor heroes. Thousands of tricolour balloons closed the event, symbolizing unity and progress.