R-Day celebrated with pomp, pageantry in Karnataka

The 68th Republic Day was celebrated in Karnataka with pomp and pageantry amid tight security on Thursday.

Karnataka Governor Vajubahia Vala unfurled the Tricolour at the Field Marshal Manekshaw parade ground in the city centre here and joined hundreds of people in singing the national anthem in tandem, in the state capital.

About 10,000 people, including women and children, flocked to the venue and witnessed an impressive march past by the contingents of the three services (Army, Navy and Air Force), state and central police forces, National Cadet Corps (NCC) and Bharat Scouts and Guides with military music bands.

Before delivering the R-Day address, Vala went around the sprawling ground in an open jeep for the guard of honour and received the salute from the armed forces on the dais.

A military helicopter showered rose petals over the venue.

State Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was present on the occasion.

The Governor and the Chief Minister also greeted the people across the state.

Boys and girls representing the Seva Dal and about 3,000 students from state-run and public schools and colleges from across the city also took part in the march past (parade) and saluted the Governor while passing before the dais.

After the music bands of the services and the state police played patriotic songs, the audience was treated to an hour-long cultural programme and sporting events.

The R-Day was celebrated with gaiety and patriotic fervour by the people in other districts of the state also, after the Tricolour was hoisted by the chief guest and an impressive parade was staged.

--IANS

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