Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is set to host a grand and historic Republic Day celebration this year, showcasing the cultural diversity of the state as well as a unique cultural confluence of nine states from across the country. The programme, organised under the theme of “Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat”, will feature over 200 artistes from states including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar, marking the first time such a national cultural integration is being presented at the event.

The celebration will begin with the hoisting of the national flag by Governor Anandiben Patel. Following the ceremony, a parade will be held at KD Singh Babu Stadium, featuring NCC cadets from universities, contingents from the armed and paramilitary forces, and various police units. A shower of flower petals from a helicopter will add to the grandeur of the event.

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Students from different schools across the state will perform patriotic songs and dances, while departmental tableaux will display Uttar Pradesh’s development story. A total of 65 marching contingents from various schools will participate in the parade, and prizes will be awarded to the best tableaux.

The Republic Day parade will include contingents from the UP Police, NCC, Scouts and Guides, Prantiya Rakshak Dal, Forest Department, CRPF, Home Guard, ATS, and other units. The highlight of the parade will be a thrilling performance by the Thunderbolt motorcycle team, showcasing exceptional balance and coordination.

The parade route will start from Ravindralaya, pass through Bal Sangrahalaya Charbagh, and proceed via Vidhan Sabha Marg to KD Singh Babu Stadium. Due to the event, the district administration has implemented route diversions and traffic arrangements.

The event will also feature a special cultural programme where artistes from nine states will perform each other’s cultural acts, reflecting the spirit of Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat. Local artistes, representing the Uttar Pradesh Culture Department, will also present performances promoting national unity.

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In the lead-up to Republic Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the Padma Awards, honouring several personalities from Uttar Pradesh. Ms N Rajam has been awarded the Padma Vibhushan for her distinguished contribution to the field of art. The Padma Shri has been conferred upon Anil Kumar Rastogi and Chiranji Lal Yadav (art), Ashok Kumar Singh (science and engineering), Kewal Krishan Thakral, Rajendra Prasad, Shyam Sunder (medicine), Ms Mangala Kapur (literature and education), Praveen Kumar (sports), Raghupat Singh (posthumously) (agriculture), and Buddha Rashmi Mani (archaeology).

The state government said these awards are a matter of pride for Uttar Pradesh, recognising personalities who have enhanced the state’s prestige at national and international levels.