Ahead of R-Day: Rehearsals in full swing for Beating Retreat ceremony

Rehearsals are on for Beating Retreat ceremony to be held at New Delhi's Vijay Chowk on January 29, 2022.

The ceremony marks the culmination of the four-day Republic Day celebrations.

The military tradition began in 17th century England, when King James II ordered his troops to beat drums, lower flags and organise a parade to announce the end of a day of combat.

The ceremony was then called ‘watch setting’ and took place at sunset after firing a single round from the evening gun.

Section D (Ceremonials) at the Ministry of Defence conducts the event.

The ceremony consists of musical performances by the bands, who each year play Indian and western tunes.

IIT startup drones being tested during the Beating Retreat rehearsals at Vijay Chowk on Wednesday.

Presidential bodyguards rehearse for the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk last week.