Pune To Witness Historic Army Day Parade For The First Time Ever
Khadki, 24th November 2024: Pune, a city steeped in rich history, is set to create a historic moment on 15 January 2025 as it hosts the prestigious Army Day Parade for the first time. Adding to the event’s significance, the Indian Army launched a promotional video for the parade at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. The video received enthusiastic response from an audience that included cinephiles, international delegates, and industry stalwarts. Bollywood celebrities like R. Madhavan and Rakul Preet Singh expressed their excitement in the video, lauding the dedication of soldiers and encouraging citizens to witness this grand occasion.
The tradition of Army Day began in 1949, marking the day Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding British leadership. For decades, the Army Day Parade was held exclusively in Delhi, showcasing the nation’s military strength, regimental traditions, and technological advancements. However, in 2023, this landmark event underwent a transformation when it was first moved out of the national capital to Bengaluru. This shift marked the start of a journey to bring the celebration closer to citizens across the country. In 2024, Lucknow became the host city for the parade, continuing this new tradition.
The 2025 parade in Pune represents another significant milestone in this evolving tradition. Known for its military heritage, Pune has been a significant contributor in India’s defence landscape. It serves as the headquarters of the Southern Command of the Indian Army and houses prestigious institutions such as the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the College of Military Engineering (CME). This year’s parade will take place at the Bombay Engineering Group and Centre, featuring marching contingents, mechanized columns, and technological exhibits. Highlights will include demonstrations of cutting-edge defence technologies such as drones and robotics, along with captivating performances like combat demonstrations and martial arts displays.
By rotating the Army Day Parade across different cities, the Indian Army fosters a stronger connection with citizens nationwide. This initiative decentralizes the celebration, providing local communities with opportunities to directly engage with the Armed Forces. Preceding the parade, events like the “Know Your Army” exhibition, scheduled for early January in Pune, will allow residents to explore advanced weaponry and interact with soldiers who defend the nation. Such initiatives emphasize inclusivity and unity, making the Army Day Parade not merely a ceremonial occasion but a national celebration of courage, dedication, and technological progress.
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