New Delhi, Jan 29 (UNI): The stunning formations by a swarm of one thousand indigenous drones flying atop Raisina Hills commemorating the 75 years of independence illuminated the sky during Beating the Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk on Saturday.
The spectacular show held the audience spellbound as the drones coordinated from ground flew in patterns to assume shapes of personalities and monuments.
The grand drone show, exhibited completely through indigenous technology with synchronised music playing in the backdrop, was organised for the first time in front of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Every formation by the drones was a visual delight, particularly the one which depicted National War Memorial in the sky. The drone show, organised by start-up Botlab Dynamics and supported by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi was conceptualised, designed, produced and choreographed under the Centre’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The show has put India in the league of countries like the China, Russia and United Kingdom who have carried out such large-scale shows using 1,000 drones.
The Beating the Retreat ceremony was graced by President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other dignitaries.
Another attraction was a projection mapping laser show of on the walls of North and South Block which showcased the glorious history of India’s freedom.
The musical performances enthralled the spectators with foot-tapping music played by the bands of Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and Central Armed Police Forces.
Many new tunes were added to the ceremony this year to celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. These include Hind ki Sena and Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon which was added this year as a replacement to Christian hymn ‘Abide with me’.
The government earlier opined that Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon is an Indian tune which pays respect to all who laid down their life for the safety and integrity of India. The event came to a close with the ever-popular tune of Sare Jahan se Acha.
The Beating the Retreat ceremony marked the formal conclusion of the Republic Day festivities in India. The crowds were limited as compared other years on Beating the Retreat due to the pandemic related restrictions.
