A look at Republic Day parade rehearsals in Delhi

In anticipation of the historic 75th Republic Day in 2024, a full dress parade rehearsal unfolded at Kartavya Path in the early hours of January 9. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

Braving the chilling morning, the Indian Navy and paramilitary personnel showcased their precision and coordination, contributing to the grandeur of the upcoming Republic Day celebrations. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

For most Indians, the parade in New Delhi remains Republic Day’s most enduring symbol. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

A grand show of India’s military might, as well as its diverse culture, the Republic Day parade holds a close place in many Indian hearts. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

With rising nationalism in Europe in the 19th century, military parades became national symbols that were supposed to capture the collective frenzy of a nation’s inhabitants into feelings of nationalism. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

As India gained its independence, it continued with many erstwhile British traditions – the parade being one of them. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

A military parade marked India’s first Republic Day in 1950. Leaders saw it as a day of victory for the Indian state and its people. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

As the parade shifted from Irwin Amphitheatre (presently known as the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium) to Rajpath (now Kartavya Path), its scale grew grander. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

In its new setting, the imagery of the parade was also different, replete with colonial symbols that were being reimagined as national images. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

The iconic tableaux became an integral part of the event, becoming symbols of India’s diverse culture. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

The tableaux showing various states were introduced as a way to celebrate India’s differences while espousing a coherent national identity. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

For many Indians, the military parade is also an expression of their regional identities. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)

At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Emmanuel Macron, President of France, will be visiting India as the Chief Guest for the 75th Republic Day celebrations. (Express Photo by Chitral Khambhati)