Karnataka: A big splash of colour and culture in the true spirit of Constitution

Bengaluru: A grand spectacle of patriotism and cultural diversity unfolded as Karnataka celebrated the 76th Republic Day on Sunday.

The celebrations were held at the Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Parade Ground, where students, police, batallions, police bands and NCC cadets were decked in uniforms to honour the country’s liberation into a sovereign socialist secular democratic republic from the British Raj.

Starting with the national anthem, the event reflected the spirit of the Constitution with an array of performances by students of various schools along with army persons and Gorkhas. Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot unfurled the Indian flag and saluted the national tricolour before addressing the gathering comprising government officials, army persons, teachers, school students and parents from across Bengaluru.

Gehlot waved at the audience gathered to watch the patriotic pageant up-close as he inspected the Republic Day parade.

Naada geethe ‘Jaya bharata jananiya thanujaathe’ and raitha geethe ‘uluva yogiya nodalli’ was sung by Kikkeri Krishnamurthy and team followed by a patriotic dance performances by the students of Karnataka Public School, Agara, and BBMP Composite PU College, Herohalli.

The 4/8 Gorkha Rifles of the Trivandrum Brigade led by Lt Shivraj Singh Gill, under the aegis of the Bison Division with their Military Pipe Band, showcased their exceptional marching skills and musical prowess during the R-day parade.

The unique Khukhri dance showcased the valour and cultural heritage of Gorkha legendary warriors.

The synchronisation between the marching contingent and the Military Pipe Band with each step and note resonated with pride, strength and unity, reflecting the rich heritage and military excellence of the Indian Armed Forces.

The Gorkha Rifles also performed in the evening at Cubbon Park’s Band Stand.

A team of 13 Punjab performed a high-voltage bhangra, embodying unity and resilience.

The Centre for Counter Terrorism led by Inspector Santosh A T did the bus intervention demo where the ‘Garuda team’ demonstrated a bus hijack scene. The team showed how to neutralise a terrorist-hijacked bus, leaving the audience jaw-dropping.

KARP Mounted Company, Mysuru, also performed tent pegging on the horse.