Jaipur came alive with patriotic fervor as the first full-dress rehearsal for the upcoming 78th Army Day parade was successfully conducted on Friday morning. Despite the chilly winter weather, a massive crowd of enthusiastic spectators from across the Pink City gathered at Mahal Road in Jagatpura to catch a glimpse of the military spectacle.
Marching in Precision: A Display of Discipline and Might
The rehearsal, held on January 12, was a grand affair commanded by Major General Rohit Mehrotra, the General Officer Commanding of the Jaipur Sub Area. The parade ground resonated with synchronized footsteps as more than 30 contingents marched in perfect unison. The impressive lineup included the NCC Girls Contingent, mounted cavalry units, and various elite infantry formations.
A major highlight was the participation of the Bhairav Battalion, an elite light commando unit. Raised in 2025 and specially trained in advanced domains like drone warfare, this tech-savvy force is set to display its tactical capabilities for the very first time during the main Army Day celebrations on January 15.
Hardware and Valour on Display
The ceremony commenced with a solemn salute to the parade commander by officers and recipients of gallantry awards. Following this, the rehearsal transformed into a powerful exhibition of the Indian Army's modern firepower and technological edge.
According to an official release from the Defence PRO, Rajasthan, the parade featured an array of cutting-edge equipment. The inventory on display included:
- Artillery guns and main battle tanks
- Light reconnaissance and advanced infantry combat vehicles
- Air defence missile systems
- Surveillance and tactical drones
Adding a unique dimension to the parade were the canine warriors. These highly trained dogs, skilled in combat, detection, and rescue operations, marched with remarkable discipline, showcasing the multifaceted capabilities of today's Indian Army.
A Unifying Spectacle for Jaipur's Residents
The event truly resonated with citizens from all walks of life. The audience was a microcosm of society itself, with children, senior citizens, and homemakers all present to witness the grandeur.
The excitement was palpable among the young attendees. Muskan Mahawat, a Class 10 student from Govt Senior Secondary School in Muhana, captured the public sentiment perfectly. She expressed, "It was a thrilling experience to see this parade in person. Witnessing it in real life was just majestic."
The successful rehearsal in Jaipur has set the stage for the main Army Day parade, promising a ceremony that will blend timeless tradition with a bold display of India's contemporary military strength.
