India on Wednesday celebrated its 73rd Republic Day with a pompous parade displaying its military might and cultural diversity on the ceremonial Rajpath in the heart of Delhi. January 26, a national holiday, marks the anniversary of India officially adopting its Constitution in 1950, replacing the 1935 Government of India Act, over two years after gaining independence from Britain. However, this year, only 5,000 people were allowed to gather on an iconic boulevard at Rajpath to witness the grand parade amid tight Covid-safety protocols. As many as 75 military planes and choppers flew over Rajpath in an aerial display, which was the highlight of the parade this year -- the 75th anniversary of India's Independence. While the country's military displayed its weaponry, missiles and uniforms, police personnel performed motorcycle stunts in the parade that began at 10.30am.

The High Commission of India, Dhaka on Wednesday celebrated the 73rd Republic Day of India at its Chancery premises. High Commissioner Vikram K Dioraiswami unfurled the national flag and read out the President’s address to the Nation.

For the first time in over five decades, India will not have a foreign leader as the chief guest at its Republic Day parade.

President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have warmly greeted the people of India on the occasion of the neighbouring country’s 71st Republic Day.