Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Leads Republic Day Celebrations at Chhatrasal Stadium
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unfurled the national flag during the Republic Day celebrations at Chhatrasal Stadium in the national capital on Sunday. This significant event marked her very first Republic Day as the leader of Delhi, following her oath-taking in February 2025 after the Aam Aadmi Party lost power.
Reviewing the Parade and Salute
According to news agency ANI, CM Rekha Gupta also reviewed the parade at Delhi's Chhatrasal Stadium on Sunday. She led her maiden Republic Day salute at the government’s planned parade celebration, a momentous occasion for the new chief minister. Earlier reports indicated that CM Gupta was expected to inspect a guard of honour and travel in an open SUV to greet the people present at the stadium, adding a personal touch to the festivities.
Pre-Republic Day Events and Attendees
On Saturday, CM Rekha Gupta, along with her Cabinet colleagues and diverse individuals from various walks of life, attended the traditional 'At Home' function hosted at Lok Niwas ahead of Republic Day. The event, organized by Lt Governor VK Saxena and his spouse Sangita Saxena, saw participation from notable figures including Paralympians, top armed forces officers such as Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, students, Padma awardees, representatives of foreign missions, vice chancellors, doctors, lawyers, freedom fighters, and specially abled persons.
Earlier in the day, Lok Niwas hosted a function to celebrate the Statehood Day of Uttar Pradesh, promoting the spirit of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat'. Lt Governor VK Saxena, in a social media post, praised Uttar Pradesh for its rich history, culture, and traditions, highlighting its role in reflecting India's heritage and progress. He expressed confidence that the state would continue to contribute to the nation's journey towards ViksitBharat@2047.
Historical Context and Previous Celebrations
In 2025, the state-level Republic Day function was led by former Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal. The transition to CM Rekha Gupta's leadership underscores a new chapter in Delhi's governance, with her Republic Day involvement symbolizing this change.
Cultural Performances and Public Engagement
As part of the Republic Day celebrations, a performance of patriotic tunes will be presented by a renowned band, accompanied by vibrant cultural presentations by the Sahitya Kala Academy on both days. Meanwhile, Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta urged citizens to visit the historic Delhi Vidhan Sabha to celebrate Republic Day in a true spirit of patriotism. He emphasized that the occasion serves as a proud reminder of India's constitutional journey and democratic ideals, encouraging deeper connection with national values.
The Delhi Assembly Secretariat announced that citizens will have the opportunity to witness Republic Day celebrations in person, experience the charm and grandeur of the historic Delhi Vidhan Sabha building, explore its architectural heritage, and learn about its pivotal role in the democratic governance of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. No prior registration is required for visiting the Assembly complex on Republic Day, with entry allowed after a security check upon showing a valid ID proof on both days.
