January 26: A nation celebrates

A standing ovation was given to 17 young National Bravery Awards recipients, who came riding on caparisoned elephants.

Elaborate security arrangements were in place for the parade and Delhi had been turned into a virtually impregnable fortress.

Anti-aircraft guns and heavy machine guns were placed at strategic locations across the capital and security forces kept a close watch on the proceedings from helicopters.

Soldiers march during the country's 57th Republic Day parade in New Delhi.

Photograph: Prakash Singh/AFP/Getty Images

Also See: Republic Day: A mix of hope and fear