The historic Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on Thursday reverberated with soulful martial music at the Beating the Retreat ceremony, which marked the culmination of the 55th Republic Day celebrations.
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An age-old military tradition that emerged from a need to honour the dead, the annual ceremony symbolises convergence of military music, smart drills and traditional fineries that the bandsmen are attired in.
In keeping with the general practice, four new tunes, including Gen Nirmal, dedicated to army chief General N C Vij, were added to the event.
The other three were the patriotic Mera Bharat Mahaan, and Balidaan and the Queen of Chenab, on the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir.
Gen Nirmal and Queen of Chenab were composed and arranged by Major (retd) Nazir Hussain; Balidan was composed and arranged by Maj R K Gurung; and Colonel (retd) S C Sharma set the tune of Mera Bharat Mahaan, which was arranged by Hussain.
Also played were three world famous compositions by Englishman W M Ross -- My Home, The Kilt is my Delight and The Bonawe Highlanders.
The bands also showcased a pipes and drums composition, Senani, by L B Gurung.
The combined naval and army bands played music lovers' favourite hymns Abide with me and Drums Call, composed by Subedar Major S Ravinder, before the final presentation of the evergreen Sara Jahan Se Achha.
The audience applauded as all the buildings overlooking Vijay Chowk were illuminated.
Thousands of security personnel kept a strict vigil in the wake of reports that terrorists would try a strike.
