For first-timers, memories to last a lifetime

New Delhi: As Kartavya Path brimmed with patriotic fervour, first-time visitors soaked in the spectacle, knowing it would be a memory to cherish forever. For many, the 77th Republic Day would be remembered as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Among the attendees was 40-year-old Momina Khatoon, a resident of Seelampur. Her pride was palpable as two of her sons, Sajid and Shahid, aged 21 and 22 respectively, had earned invitations through an essay competition on Vande Mataram. Each pass allowed entry for two, allowing Momina to be accompanied by her eldest son, 26-year-old Saif. "The day brings together people from different backgrounds and gives a sense of patriotism," Momina said, as she reflected on the special moment and her sons' achievement.




Thirty-two-year-old Surya attended the parade with her six-year-old daughter. Originally from Kerala's Kollam, the family has been living in Delhi as Surya's husband works at the Army headquarters. Seeing the parade up close brought her immense joy. "It was a superb event! I am glad I could give my daughter this experience," she said, her excitement echoing the energy around her.

School groups added to the vibrant crowd. Zarnaben, a 37-year-old science teacher at Gandhinagar International Public School, had arrived in Delhi on Jan 22 with 97 students and planned to return to Gujarat late Monday evening. She said the school encourages teachers and students who have not previously witnessed the parade to participate in such educational trips. "When children get a chance like this, they should see it firsthand. It is a memorable experience," she said. One of her students, 15-year-old Diya Patel, added: "It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience this with my friends."

For many first-time visitors, the parade was a long-awaited dream come true. Mona Kumari, 35, from Gulabi Bagh, had travelled alone, wearing a tricolour outfit she had especially purchased for the occasion. She described the experience of visiting Rajpath and the surrounding market area as "truly memorable".

"I have been wanting to see the Republic Day parade from the front for the past five years. Until now, I used to watch it only on television. This year, I decided I would not miss the chance," she said, her excitement evident.

Sharing a similar sentiment was Ravi Kumar, 42, a small business owner from Rohini. "I have attended the Republic Day parade for the first time, and it is an experience I will cherish," he said, smiling. He described the spectacle and its scale in awe as he recalled watching the armed forces march past, the flypast overhead, and the beautifully designed tableaux.

Reflecting on the difference between seeing it on the screen and in person, he added, "Being here feels much more powerful." According to Kumar, the sense of discipline, unity and pride in the air would stay with him forever, a feeling he called "unforgettable".

Across Kartavya Path, the energy was contagious, leaving first-time visitors with memories of a day that beautifully celebrated India's unity, heritage and patriotism, a spectacle many hoped they would witness again.
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