Republic Day 2024 Highlights: President Murmu, Macron depart; PM Modi greets public

Republic Day 2024 LIVE: President Murmu, Macron depart as parade concludes.

Republic Day 2024 Highlights: Welcome to our live blog coverage of the historic 75th Republic Day celebrations. The grand event at Kartavya Path in the national capital, graced by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was a breathtaking display of patriotic fervour and cultural richness. This year's Republic Day parade, set against the backdrop of a historic milestone, featured special moments, including the participation of French President Emmanuel Macron as its chief guest.

The day kicked off with a solemn and heartfelt tribute to the fallen heroes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the National War Memorial. Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his tradition of wearing vibrant and colourful turbans for Republic Day celebrations. For the 75th Republic Day, he chose a multi-colored bandhani print safa 'pagdi' (turban), which he paired with a white 'kurta-pyjama' and a brown Nehru jacket.

Prime Minister Modi, along with other dignitaries, then reached the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the grand parade that encapsulates the spirit of India's diverse and vibrant heritage.

Discontinued after Indira Gandhi's death, ‘buggy tradition' revived by President Murmu on 75th Republic Day

President Droupadi Murmu and President Emmanuel Macron were escorted by the illustrious President’s Bodyguard - ‘Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak’. The President’s Bodyguard is the seniormost Regiment of the Indian Army. This Republic Day holds a special significance for the regiment as they mark 250 years of dedicated service since their inception in 1773. The two Presidents will make a grand entrance in the 'Traditional Buggy', reviving a practice after a gap of 40 years.

Follow our live blog for real-time updates on the ceremonies, performances, and the camaraderie between Prime Minister Modi and chief guest Macron.