New Delhi, Jan 31 (ANI): India on Wednesday marked the end Republic Day celebrations with the colourful 'Beating Retreat' ceremony that took place on Vijay Chowk road square in New Delhi, near President's estate. Hundreds of spectators were present to witness military bands playing. The event saw the attendance of Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Defence Minister Arackaparambil Kurien Antony, Delhi's newly appointed chief minister Arvind Kejriwal.The President's arrival was followed by performances by the 14 Trumpeters, 32 Buglers and 14 Echo Buglers, placed strategically along the building of the entire administrative block. As the military bands played India's national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana', the political leaders and the spectators stood up in order to honour the country. The Indian national flag was lowered to the solemn accompaniment of the military band. The ceremony is held at Vijay Chowk on January 29 every year and marks the culmination of the four-day-long Republic Day celebrations. The Beating Retreat has its origins in the retreat of the armed forces after a day at the battlefront. India became a republic on January 26, 1950, and celebrates the day with military parades, pomp and ceremony in all major cities.
