Every year on January 26th, the nation’s heart swells with pride as the Republic Day Parade unfolds along the historic Kartavya Path in New Delhi. This year, the 2025 celebration shone brighter than ever—rich in culture, tradition, and innovation. However, behind the resplendent tableaux, marching contingents, and patriotic fervor lies a dedicated team of commentators who ensure that every moment resonates across the country.
The parade’s magnificence extends beyond the disciplined marching and fluttering tricolor; it also encompasses the emotions and narratives conveyed by the official commentators. Often unseen but always heard, these individuals narrate unfolding scenes, share historical context, and highlight key details about each contingent, dance performance, and technological showcase.
Their role is crucial in several ways:
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Bridging the Distance: Millions of citizens, whether in India or abroad, depend on these commentators to experience the grandeur of Republic Day from their homes.
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Weaving History and Context: From the heroic sagas of the armed forces to the cultural richness of each state’s tableau, the commentary provides depth and perspective.
- Stoking National Pride: The enthusiasm and passion in their voices help to ensure that viewers do not just watch but feel each moment.
This year’s commentary team, guided by the PRO Defence Dehradun, spent weeks—sometimes months—planning meticulous scripts. They delved into the significance of newly inducted military equipment and the unique cultural elements of various states to ensure their words matched the visual splendor on the ground.
Their extensive research involved collaboration with defense officials, cultural experts, and state representatives to gather accurate information. The team studied historical archives, visited regimental centers, and interviewed parade participants to gather firsthand stories.
Under the thoughtful guidance of PRO Defence Dehradun, the commentary script was meticulously refined to reflect the latest additions and ceremonial protocols. Each word and phrase was chosen for clarity, authenticity, and respect for tradition.
While honoring time-tested elements of the parade, such as gallantry award winners and the beating retreat ceremony, the commentators also highlighted new technological displays, modern defense equipment, and progressive initiatives, offering a balanced view of India’s heritage and forward-looking achievements.
The commentators—comprising veteran broadcasters, serving defense officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as cultural enthusiasts—form the narrative backbone of the telecast. Although the live coverage often highlights the grand salute and the President’s motorcade, the voices behind the microphone rarely come into view. However, their contributions are vital.
Delivering real-time commentary for an event of this magnitude is high-pressure. Moments before going on air, commentators often recheck the order of contingents, confirm last-minute changes, practice pronunciations of diverse names, and steady their nerves to capture the right pitch and tone for significant moments—from the solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial to the cheerful performances by schoolchildren.
As the tricolor flutters in the January breeze and the nation stands united in celebration, it is essential to recognize the incredible voices that bring the grand celebration of Republic Day to life. Their commentary captures the true spirit of the nation, echoing the sounds of marching bands, notes of patriotism, and proud recognition of the armed forces and cultural heritage.
The tireless work, in-depth research, and heartfelt narration of these commentators ensure that the meaning of Republic Day resonates in homes across the country—from bustling metros to the remotest corners. Through their lens of words, viewers do not just watch the parade; they live it.
