India celebrates 65th Republic Day

President Pranab Mukherjee takes salute from the Indian military during the 65th Republic Day parade at Rajpath in New Delhi. With him is Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is the chief guest at this year's parade.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh pays his respects to the martyrs at Amar Jawan Jyoti before the Republic Day parade.

Soldiers march during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. Millions of Indians watched a display of the country's military power and cultural diversity amid tight security during national day celebrations.

Photo credit: AP

Indian army soldiers display the military hardware during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi

Photo credit: AP

Russian made T-90 tanks roll down Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard, during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.

Photo credit: AP

Indian air force airmen march during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.

Photo credit: AP

Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles, jointly developed by India and Russia, are displayed during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.

Photo credit: AP

Before the start of the parade, many dignitaries laid wreaths at 'Amar Jawan Jyoti', the war memorial at the India Gate where an eternal flame burns in memory of those who laid down their lives defending the frontiers of the nation.

Traditional dances from different cultural backgrounds across the country were performed at the parade in New Delhi.