Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 12, 2025, 01:00 PM
Republic Day 2025: India celebrates its Republic Day every year on January 26 with great pomp, and a specific tradition is followed on this occasion—inviting some foreign leader as the chief guest. The ceremony not only marks the coming into force of the Constitution of India, but is also an occasion to deepen the country's international diplomacy and global relations.Who will be the chief guest this time?This year, the name of Indonesia's President, Prabowo Subianto, has emerged prominently as the chief guest of Republic Day in India. However, it is expected that Subianto will not visit Pakistan after his India visit after a significant objection was raised by the Indian capital New Delhi. According to Pakistani media reports, Jakarta had planned to visit Pakistan after President Subianto's visit to India, but now there is a possibility of a change in this.Participation of global leadersIndia invites global leaders to its Republic Day celebrations every year, thereby further strengthening India's diplomatic role and international relations. Last year, in 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron attended the Republic Day as the chief guest. Earlier in 2023, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi visited India. The presence of these global leaders makes India's prestigious Republic Day celebrations even more glorious.Changes due to COVID-19There were no chief guests on Republic Day in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in 2020, Brazilian President, Jair Bolsonaro attended the Republic Day celebrations. Earlier, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2019, leaders of all 10 ASEAN countries in 2018 and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2017 also attended the Republic Day parade.Past Distinguished GuestsIndia's Republic Day celebrations have a special international flavour every year, with prominent leaders and diplomats from across the world attending. In 2016, French President Francois Hollande and US President Barack Obama in 2015 were the chief guests of the Republic Day. In 2014, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was part of this honour.The presence of these global leaders at India's Republic Day parade not only showcases the glory of India's democracy but also symbolises the success of India's diplomatic relations. The event has become an important platform to showcase the power of Indian culture, diversity and unity across the world.ConclusionIndia's Republic Day is not just a national festival, but it also symbolizes the strength of international relations. Every year the presence of the chief guest serves to further strengthen India's global image and diplomatic efforts. President Prabowo Subianto's presence on the upcoming Republic Day will play an important role in further strengthening the relations between India and Indonesia.