Republic Day @ 71: India's rich cultural heritage, military might on display

There were several firsts in the celebration this year, including the prime minister paying homage at the National War Memorial, display of Chinook and Apache helicopters in the fly past and showcasing of the A-SAT weapons system.

India celebrated the 71st Republic Day on Sunday with a grand military parade and exhibition of its history, cultural diversity and strategic weaponry at the Rajpath. (Photo | Shriram B N, EPS) 

Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro was the chief guest for this year's ceremony. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter aircraft fly in Trishul manoeuvre during the 71st Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Five Jaguar Deep penetration strike aircraft, in ‘arrowhead’ formation. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

An Mi-17 helicopter showers flower petals during the 71st Republic Day Parade at the Rajpath in New Delhi Sunday. (Photo | PTI)

Women soldiers of Central Reserve Police Force display their skills at Rajpath. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Women bikers of the CRPF perform a daredevil stunt by making a human pyramid on motorcycles during the 71st Republic Day Parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Indian Army tanks roll past Rajpath during the 71st Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Republic Day parade showcasing its military might and economic strength marches through Rajpath. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Akash Army Launcher systems on display during the parade in New Delhi. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

Soldiers march during the 71st Republic Day parade. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

An Indian Air Force contingent marches during the Republic Day parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

The IAF tableau with the Astra missile and a Rafale jet on display at Rajpath. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

BSF's camel contingent takes out a march for Republic Day parade at Rajpath. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

The tableaux of Tamil Nadu followed by Rajasthan and Telangana. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

The tableaux of Telangana followed by Assam showcasing the rich culture of the Indian states. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)

The tableaux of Karnataka followed by Jammu and Kashmir. (Photo | Shekhar Yadav, EPS)