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Last Updated: Saturday, 26 January 2008, 10:47 GMT
In pictures: India's Republic Day

Indian Army soldiers march during the 59th Republic Day Parade, in New Delhi

Republic Day marks the adoption of India's republican constitution in 1950 - three years after independence from Britain.

French President Nicholas Sarkozy was the guest of honour at the parade

French President Nicholas Sarkozy was the guest of honour at the parade during which India's latest military hardware was displayed.

Elephants take part in India's Republic Day parade in New Delhi

Tens of thousands of people gathered in the centre of Delhi, once the heart of India's colonial past.

Indian school children perform a drama based on the Indian fight against the British rule for independence

In Bangalore, Indian school children performed a drama based on the Indian struggle for independence.

Indian soldiers from the Light Maratha Infantry perform a traditional sport called Malkhumb

Indian soldiers from the Light Maratha Infantry performed a traditional sport called Malkhumb.

Indian soldiers from the Light Maratha Infantry perform a traditional sport called Malkhumb

Tight security was in place, especially after calls to boycott the day by separatists fighting Indian forces in Kashmir.

Indian soldiers on parade

The parades were also a chance for India to display its military might.

Soldiers in colourful headgear marched smartly

Soldiers in colourful headgear marched smartly, while India's latest weapons - including nuclear missiles - were also on display.





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