Lucknow's Grand Republic Day Parade Highlights Cultural Unity and State Pride
The 77th Republic Day celebrations in Lucknow on Monday were marked by spectacular displays of cultural diversity and patriotic fervor, with the parade on Vidhan Sabha Marg serving as the centerpiece of the festivities.
Cultural Extravaganza with Artists from Nine States
In a first for Uttar Pradesh's Republic Day program, more than 200 artists from nine different states performed during the parade, creating a vibrant tapestry of India's cultural heritage. The participating states included Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Bihar, Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
All performances were thoughtfully curated around the theme of 'Ek Bharat-Shreshta Bharat,' emphasizing national unity and cooperation through artistic expression. This massive cultural presentation represented one of the most significant highlights of the day's celebrations.
Emotional Moments and Distinguished Presence
One of the most touching moments came when children who had been freed from begging performed a tricolour dance, symbolizing hope and rehabilitation. Their participation added profound emotional depth to the celebrations.
Governor Anandiben Patel presided over the ceremony, unfurling the national flag and taking the salute from the various contingents. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with several ministers, officers, and other distinguished guests, actively boosted the morale of participants throughout the event.
Military and Police Contingents Display Discipline
The parade featured impressive displays from various defense and security forces:
- Contingents from multiple regiments of the Indian Army marched with precision to their brass bands
- Uttar Pradesh Police, Home Guard, and the 32nd and 35th battalions of PAC demonstrated their discipline
- Women PAC force members showcased their capabilities alongside Provincial Defence Corps personnel
- NCC cadets represented the youth of the state with enthusiasm
Notably, the Haryana Police contingent received a special invitation to participate in the parade, adding inter-state cooperation to the day's themes.
Tableau Depicting Heritage and Development
The Information Department presented a tableau that creatively depicted Uttar Pradesh's rich heritage alongside its ongoing development works. This visual representation highlighted how the state honors its past while building toward a prosperous future.
Official Statements on the Celebration's Significance
A government spokesperson emphasized that the parade successfully showcased the state's defense corps, cultural diversity, and student power, all brought together under the umbrella of national unity and cooperation. The event served as a powerful demonstration of how regional identities contribute to national strength.
The 77th Republic Day celebrations in Lucknow ultimately presented a comprehensive picture of Uttar Pradesh's commitment to both preserving cultural traditions and embracing progress, while reinforcing the bonds of national unity that define India's democratic spirit.
