From the archive record
Foot-tapping music and soulful classical renditions rent the air as Republic Day celebrations culminated with the Beating Retreat ceremony in the national capital where President Pranab Mukherjee rode the ceremonial buggy - an open gold-plated carriage - down the Raisina Hill. President Mukherjee, whose tenure ends later this year, greeted the spectators with a customary wave. The ceremonial event at the Vijay Chowk this year saw 16 military bands, 16 pipes and drums bands from regimental centres and battalions enthralling the crowd, with clear sky and relatively warmer weather adding to the august atmosphere. Several performances by Army, Air Force and Naval bands, among other troupes, thrilled the audience with patriotic fervour, which cheered loudly in the backdrop of a delightful twili