Pomp, pageantry mark Republic Day in Karnataka

Pomp and pageantry marked the 65th Republic Day celebrations in Karnataka Sunday, with Governor H.R. Bharadwaj hoisting the tricolour and inspecting an impressive parade here.

On a sunny day, an air force helicopter showered rose petals at the podium at the Field Marshal Manekshaw ground in the city centre where the governor, Chief Minister Siddarmaiah and others were seated.

After unfurling the flag, Bhardwaj inspected the parade of the armed forces and others including the police, National Cadet Corps, Scouts and Guides, and hundreds of school children.

About 5,000 people, including children, at the venue cheered the military personnel and other participants.

People at the ground and millions watching the colourful proceedings live on news channels were treated to an hour-long cultural programmes by about 3,000 children and adventurous feats by the military, police and acrobatic teams.

Theme-based events were staged through music, songs and dances as a tribute to martyrs and armed forces.

The highlight of the two-hour event was the daring feats of the Belgaum-based Maratha Light Infantry Regiment on pole vault, exciting the crowds and drawing thunderous applause.

The Republic Day was also celebrated at district towns with flag hoisting, parades and cultural programmes.