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The Beating Retreat Ceremony is held every year on 29 January at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi.

The Beating Retreat Ceremony is a grand, dignified and emotional military event concluding the Republic Day celebrations in India. It is organized every year on 29 January at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi. This place is near the duty path. With this ceremony, all the formal programs of Republic Day, which started from 26 January, officially end. Now the question is what is the Beating Retreat Ceremony? What happens in this event of Republic Day celebration?

The term beating the retreat originates from the military traditions of Europe. In ancient times, during wars, as soon as evening fell, the soldiers were signaled to return to their camps by playing drums. This was called beating the retreat. Gradually this tradition turned into a formal military ceremony, in which discipline, music and military pride were displayed. In India, this tradition officially started in the year 1952 and since then this ceremony has become an integral part of the Republic Day celebrations.

Is Beating the Retreat just a music programme?

Beating the Retreat is not just a musical event but it is a symbol of unity and discipline of the Indian Armed Forces. It is an opportunity to honor the sacrifice of martyrs and soldiers. It gives a message to the nation that both peace and vigilance are necessary. Provides a solemn, dignified and emotional conclusion to the Republic Day celebrations

Major military band contingents of the three armies of the country participate in this program.

Where does the program take place?

It is a tradition to organize the Beating the Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk, a very important area of ​​the national capital New Delhi. This ceremony is held in the evening just before sunset. The date is always fixed as 29th January. As the sun sets, the atmosphere at the venue is filled with a special sense of solemnity and patriotism.

Who participates in the ceremony?

Major military band contingents of the three armies of India participate in this program. The main participation has been from the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. Over time, bands of the Central Armed Police Forces have also been involved.

The main attraction of the ceremony is the patriotic and traditional tunes played by various military bands.

What happens in the Beating Retreat Ceremony?

• Presentation of Military Band: The main attraction of the ceremony is the patriotic and traditional tunes played by various military bands. These tunes include patriotic songs, folk tunes, military marches, sometimes even glimpses of modern Indian music. Every band performs with a disciplined march, which mesmerizes the spectators.
• Emotional tune of Abide With Me: The most emotional moment of the Beating Retreat is when the famous tune Abide With Me is played. This tune is considered a symbol of peace, sacrifice, memory and introspection. During this time the whole atmosphere becomes serious and emotional.
• Arrival and salute of the President: The President of India, who is the supreme commander of the armed forces, is present at the ceremony. He is given a formal salute by the band.
• Lowering of the National Flag: In the last phase of the ceremony, the national flag is lowered respectfully. The bands play the tune of retreat and the army units slowly return from the field. This scene marks the end of Republic Day.
• Lighting and Architectural Beauty: During the Beating Retreat, Rashtrapati Bhavan, North Block, South Block and many other government buildings are decorated with special lights. Historic buildings look like grand paintings bathed in light.
• Changes in recent years: In recent years the government has tried to give the beating retreat a more Indian character. Under this, priority was given to Indian music instead of foreign tunes. Folk music and regional tunes were included. An attempt was also made to give the message of Make in India and cultural self-reliance. With these changes the ceremony has become more indigenous and emotional.
• Participation of general public: This is a formal military event, yet civilians are invited through passes. It is telecast live on Doordarshan and other channels. Lakhs of people watch it sitting at home. This ceremony creates an emotional bridge between the army and the civilians.

The Beating Retreat Ceremony is a wonderful amalgamation of India's military tradition, cultural heritage and national pride.

Symbolic Meaning of the Beating Retreat Ceremony

This event reminds us that freedom is not just a celebration but also a responsibility. The army is ready at all times, but peace is paramount. Nation first, individuals come second. Beating the Retreat in a way gives a message to the nation that the celebration is over, but the duty continues.

The Beating Retreat Ceremony is a wonderful amalgamation of India's military tradition, cultural heritage and national pride. It not only formally concludes the Republic Day celebrations, but also deepens the feeling of patriotism, respect and gratitude in the hearts of the citizens. This ceremony teaches us that peace, discipline and sacrifice are the true identity of any nation.