New Delhi: As the Republic Day celebrations culminated with the spectacular Beating Retreat ceremony, the historic Vijay Chowk was filled with the powerful melodies of three iconic songs composed by the legendary AR Rahman. The Oscar-winning anthem 'Jai Ho', the deeply patriotic 'Bharat humko jaan se pyaara hai', and the soul-stirring 'Ma tujhe salaam' created an unforgettable musical atmosphere that resonated throughout the capital.
Rahman's Recent Reflections on Hindi Film Music
Earlier this month, during an interview with BBC Asian Network, AR Rahman addressed questions about his reduced presence in Hindi-film music. The composer remarked, "It might be a communal thing also... but it is not in my face." He later clarified his statement, emphasizing that intentions can sometimes be "misunderstood" and expressing his profound gratitude to the nation that has embraced his musical contributions for decades.
Military Bands Deliver Patriotic Performances
The musical program featured exceptional performances by India's armed forces bands. The Central Armed Police Forces band delivered a stirring rendition of "Jai Ho", while the Indian Navy band performed 'Bharat humko jaan se pyaara hai' with precision and passion. The Indian Army band added to the patriotic fervor with their performance of 'Aarambh hai prachand' from the acclaimed movie Gulaal.
Thursday evening's ceremony held special significance as it marked the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, which was prominently featured alongside Operation Sindoor throughout the event. President Droupadi Murmu presided over the ceremony, arriving in the traditional ceremonial buggy, accompanied by Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and the three service chiefs.
Symbolic Formations and Technological Displays
The military bands created several symbolic formations that paid tribute to India's heritage and military valor:
- 'Amar Jawan': A moving tribute to the bravehearts of the Indian Army
- 'Deva Vyuha': A battle formation referenced in the Mahabharata, specifically used against Bhishma Pitamah
- 'Ardhachandra Vyuha': A strategic half-moon battle formation demonstrating military precision
The technological aspect of the ceremony was equally impressive, with LED screens displaying a video clip of a BrahMos missile successfully hitting its target. Band members' instruments were wrapped with LED lights showcasing the Operation Sindoor logo, while the screens displayed images of advanced defense systems including:
- Rafale fighter jets
- Tejas aircraft
- Su-30 combat planes
- BrahMos missiles
- S-400 air defense systems
- Netra airborne early warning systems
- Prachand attack helicopters
- C-130 transport aircraft
Prime Minister's Appreciation on Social Media
Following the ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared glimpses from Beating Retreat 2026 on social media platform X, describing the performances by various bands as "memorable." In a series of detailed posts, the Prime Minister praised specific aspects of the ceremony:
"Air Force Band was exceptional... They performed 'Brave Warrior', 'Twilight', 'Alert (Post Horn Gallop)' and 'Flying Star' impeccably. The Sindoor formation was brilliant!"
Regarding the naval band's performance, Modi posted: "Simply outstanding! The Naval Band's performances included 'Namaste', 'Sagar Pawan', 'Matribhumi', 'Tejasvi' and 'Jai Bharati'. The Matsya Yantra formation was flawless."
The Beating Retreat ceremony successfully blended musical excellence, military precision, technological advancement, and patriotic symbolism, creating a fitting conclusion to India's Republic Day celebrations that honored both tradition and progress.
