- Beating the Retreat, a unique confluence of sound, discipline and tradition
The 77th Republic Day celebrations in Madhya Pradesh concluded with the historic ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony on Thursday under the chief patronage of Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel. This grand ceremony was organised at the Lal Parade Ground in Jahangirabad. In the programme, the Madhya Pradesh Police Brass Band and the Army Brass Band presented musical performances filled with patriotism, discipline and cultural consciousness, in which restraint, unity and dignity of military tradition were presented in a lively manner. It is noteworthy that ‘Beating the Retreat’ is a symbol of the glorious tradition of the military and paramilitary forces. At the national level, this historic ceremony is organised only in Bhopal along with Delhi.
On this occasion, Mayor Smt. Malti Rai, Chief Information Commissioner Shri Vijay Yadav, Chief Secretary Shri Anurag Jain, Director General of Police Shri Kailash Makwana, Additional Chief Secretary Home Shri Shiv Shekhar Shukla, Inspector General of Police Shri Irshad Wali, Commandant 7th Vahini Shri Hitesh Chaudhary along with senior officers of Army, Police and Administration were present.
Upon Governor Patel’s arrival, the Police Brass Band presented a welcome tune. Subsequently, a brass band concert, led by Inspector Sunil Katare, began with “Vande Mataram,” followed by renditions of “Mere Desh Ki Dharti,” “Pankh Hote To Ud Aati Re,” “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas,” “Teri Jhalak Ashrafi,” “Yeh Desh Hai Veer Jawanon Ka,” “Ajib Dastaan Hai Ye,” “Yeh Shaam Mastani,” “Sandese Aate Hain,” and “Hey Apna Dil To Awara.” The unique blend of evergreen and modern popular melodies captivated the audience. The final performance, a patriotic fusion piece, filled the venue with thunderous applause.
After the intermission, a joint performance by the Police and Army bands elevated the event to new heights. In the band display, the Massed Band, Army Brass Band, and Police Brass Band marched past in perfect unison performing Fanfare, Quick March, and Slow March. The drum roll performance by the Massed Band before the retreat was a special attraction. In the final phase of the ceremony, the women’s contingent, led by Sub-Inspector Suniti Singh, respectfully lowered the national flag. The program concluded with the melodious tune of “Saare Jahan Se Achha,” the national anthem, and a display of colorful lights and fireworks.