Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk marks end of 77th Republic Day celebrations

Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk marks end of 77th Republic Day celebrations

• Beating Retreat ceremony concluded Republic Day events at Vijay Chowk
• President, PM, and military chiefs attended the ceremonial event
• Traffic diversions were enforced in central Delhi during the ceremony

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The curtains came down on the 77th Republic Day celebrations on Thursday evening with the Beating Retreat ceremony held at Vijay Chowk in the national capital. The ceremonial event was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and several members of the Union Cabinet.

The chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force were also present at the venue, underscoring the military significance of the occasion.

The ceremony commenced with the President receiving the national salute from the armed forces. This was followed by the hoisting of the national flag and the playing of the national anthem. Vijay Chowk and surrounding landmarks were illuminated with vibrant lighting, adding to the solemn yet celebratory atmosphere.

#WATCH | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu arrives at Vijay Chowk to attend the Beating Retreat ceremony. (Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/YdBc20VTIA

— ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2026

The Beating Retreat ceremony is a long-standing military tradition that formally signals the conclusion of Republic Day events. It features coordinated performances by bands from the Army, Navy and Air Force, which play a repertoire of patriotic compositions and marching tunes. The event is marked by disciplined formations and ceremonial drills, set against the backdrop of illuminated government buildings.

Rooted in military history, the ceremony symbolises the transition from celebration to routine, reflecting themes of peace, alertness and national pride while showcasing the precision and discipline of the armed forces.

In view of the event, the Delhi Traffic Police issued a traffic advisory for January 29. Vijay Chowk was closed to general traffic between 2:00 pm and 9:30 pm. Traffic diversions were enforced across central Delhi, including Kartavya Path, Rafi Marg, Raisina Road, Krishna Menon Marg, Dara Shikoh Road and areas around Sunehri Masjid.

Commuters were advised to steer clear of central Delhi during the restricted hours and use alternate routes such as Ring Road, Ridge Road, Aurobindo Marg, Madarsa T-Point and Safdarjung Road to avoid congestion.