What To Remember When Taking Your Kids To See The Republic Day Parade In Delhi

Every January, the nation's capital dons its best look. It's winter, there is a nip in the air, and the seat of power gets all set to receive foreign dignitaries. That just means we need to put our best foot forward and we do with a grand Republic Day Parade! I have so many memories of waking up on Republic Day morning and sitting in front of the television eating breakfast and watching tableaus of every state as they drive down Rajpath, as the gathered crowds greet each one with thunderous applause.

This is the first time that a woman officer would be leading the Army Services Corps in the 2019 Republic Day parade. The Daredevils Motorcycle Team will also include a women officer in their team this year. So excited to see that!

But if you are in Delhi then you must take your children to watch this amazing experience live! Here's how!

Where Do I Buy The Tickets?

Tickets are available at seven counters:

North Block Roundabout
Sena Bhawan (Gate 2).
Jantar Mantar (Main Gate).
Jamnagar House (opposite India Gate).
Pragati Maidan (Gate 1 at Bhairon Road).
Shastri Bhawan (near Gate 3).
Red Fort (inside August 15 Park and opposite Jain Temple).
Parliament House Reception Office, the special counter of members of Parliament.

Timings:

The ticket counters will be open daily at:

10 AM. to 12.30 PM

2 PM to 4.30 PM.

However, from 23rd to 25th January 2019, the ticket counters at Shastri Bhavan, Jantar Mantar, Jamnagar House and Sena Bhavan will be open till 7 p.m.

Also, you will need the following in order to buy Republic Day Tickets.

Aadhaar Card
Passport
Driving License
Student I card
PAN Card
Voter Card or Identity Cards issued by Government of India or State Governments only.

Payments can be made through cash/credit/debit cards.

How much do these tickets cost?

For the Republic Day Parade on 26th January 2019

For Reserved Seats – Rs 500

For Unreserved Seats – Rs 100 and Rs 20

For the Beating the Retreat Ceremony (Full Dress Rehearsal) on 28th January 2019

Tickets are priced at Rs. 50 and Rs. 20. There are no reserved seats.

What time does the parade begin?

The telecasting of the Republic Day Parade on TV will start at 9.00AM. You will need to get there at least 2 hours earlier in view of the security checks. Every ticket will be vetted by the security personnel.

How long is the actual event?

The parade normally lasts two-three hours, so come prepared with certain essentials to keep your child engaged and warm. Since it will be in the outdoors, make sure your child is kept warm.

Image source: thebetterindia

Ok, This is the first time I will be going to a parade. What should I expect?

This is the 70th Republic Day of India. The parade starts at 9:00 a.m with The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind unfurling the National Flag while the National Anthem is being played. Every Indian citizen watching this stands up in honour and respect towards the Nation. The parade will start from Raisina Hill Rashtrapati Bhawan ( the President's residence) along the Rajpath and past India Gate and on to the Red Fort. The special moment is the 21 gun salute in honour of the Jawans who laid down their lives for the country. The famous R-Day parade is led by the three divisions of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) who showcase their strength.

Who is the Chief Guest this year?

The Chief Guest of Honour this year at the Republic Day Parade 2019 is Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, the fifth and current President of South Africa.

Things To Remember

You are not allowed to carry your mobile phones, camera, laptop, digital diary, transistor, remote controlled car keys or other electronic devices for some security reasons.
You need to drop all the electronic devices at home or submit at the security checkpoint available there.
All entrances are closed before the National Anthem starts, so plan your visit accordingly.
Make sure you keep yourself warm- because January is still reeling from the harsh winter in Delhi.
You can brief your kids about the parade beforehand with this post so that they enjoy the proceedings.
For smaller kids, you can engage them by getting them some colouring books or small toys that will keep them entertained.
The entire proceedings can go for a few hours. So make sure, you have some snacks and a bottle of water for your kids in your handbag.
Check for the traffic disruptions in your area, before you leave.