In the presence of the Egyptian President "guest of honor"
India showcases its military and cultural diversity in the Republic Day Parade
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India showcased its military and cultural diversity in a colorful parade Thursday down a restored colonial-era street in New Delhi to celebrate Republic Day, the anniversary of the day the country's secular constitution came into effect in 1950.
Thousands followed the procession down Kartavia Street, meaning Path of Duty, braving the cold weather on a foggy morning as millions watched it on television.
The street was known as Raj Path since independence and was called King's Road during British colonial times, but its name was changed in September.
Accompanied by military bands, troops from the army, border guards and police moved in perfect synchronization towards the stage where President of India Draupadi Mormo saluted.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was the main guest of the event, in which 144 soldiers from the Egyptian Armed Forces also participated.
Next to Sisi, who wore a blue suit, was Indian President Draupadi Mormo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who were wearing a turban symbolizing Hindu nationalism.
The grand event touched on India's rich and diverse heritage, with lively performances from various states and ministries addressing the theme of female power.
Dozens of women, men, students and dancers performed cultural dances amidst cheers from the crowd.
Howitzers, tanks, hypersonic cruise missiles, anti-tank missiles and armored personnel carriers participated in the parade. Hundreds of police and army battalions marched, and dragons from the presidential palace joined the parade.
The event, which lasted 90 minutes, ended with an airshow featuring 75 Air Force fighters, including Rafale jets and helicopters.
India invites foreign leaders to attend the parade, and former French President Francois Hollande was the guest of honor in 2016.
New Delhi invited former US President Barack Obama to be the guest of honor for the 2015 celebrations
New Delhi - agencies
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