NEW DELHI: The parade began as part of the 76th Republic Day celebrations in the national capital. President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and chief guest Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto are present at the event.

Ahead of the start of the parade at the Kartavya Path, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial. He then wrote his Republic Day message in the digital visitor's diary prepared there.

The parade began after the President, who reached Kartavya Path for the Republic Day celebrations, saluted the tricolor flag. The parade began with a musical concert by 300 artists. The concert, accompanied by various musical instruments, was prepared by the Department of Culture. The parade will feature 31 tableaux under the theme 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas'.

For the first time in history, there will be cultural programmes with 5,000 artists. Around 10,000 guests have come to watch the event. The parade will last for 90 minutes. The 152-member Indonesian Army and the 190-member Indonesian Military Band will also be part of the event.

The Indian Army has prepared indigenously built battle tanks and military vehicles for the parade. 40 fighter jets of the Air Force are set to create a colourful spectacle in the sky. Parade groups of the Navy and various paramilitary forces will also be present.