Rehearsals in full swing for Beating Retreat ceremony

A view of illuminated North and South Block during the full dress rehearsal for Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk. (Express photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

'Beating Retreat' marks a centuries old military tradition. At the sounding of retreat, the troops ceased fighting, sheathed their arms and withdrew from the battlefield, returning to their camps at sunset. (Express photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

The ceremony held on January 29 every year marks the culmination of the four-day-long Republic Day celebrations. (Express photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

Delhi police personnel conduct a mock drill during the full dress rehearsal for Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi. (Express photo by Prem Nath Pandey)

Indian Air Force band performs during the full dress rehearsal for Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk. (PTI)

Tri-services bands perform during the full dress rehearsal for Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk. (PTI)

Border Security Force (BSF) camel contingent stands guard at Raisina Hills during the full dress rehearsal for the Beating Retreat ceremony. (PTI)

President Ram Nath Kovind's mounted bodyguards arrive at Vijay Chowk. (PTI)

The only western tune 'Abide with me' which is usually played as the concluding piece of the Beating Retreat ceremony might be replaced by Vande Mataram this year. (PTI)

Tri-services bands perform during the full dress rehearsal for Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk. (PTI)