Republic Day to showcase Indonesian military’s Genderang Suling Canka Lokananta and Marching Contingent, symbolizing unity and discipline.
New Delhi, January 26: Prabowo Subianto, the President of Indonesia, will be the Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations, held at Kartavya Path in the national capital this Sunday.
Adding a special touch to the occasion, the Indonesian Military Academy’s Genderang Suling Canka Lokananta, a 190-member ensemble band, will perform at the celebrations. The band, named after Sanskrit words meaning “heavenly trumpet sound,” symbolizes discipline and tradition, showcasing a mix of musical excellence and military values. Featuring instruments like snare drums, trumpets, flutes, and more, the group demonstrates the academy’s commitment to teamwork and national pride.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Marching Contingent, comprising 152 personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, will also participate. Representing Indonesia’s motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), the contingent highlights the nation’s unity across diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. Performing in honor guard uniforms, their precise formations, often incorporating national symbols like the Garuda emblem and the Indonesian flag, reflect discipline, readiness, and national pride.
Prabowo Subianto: A Leader of Distinction
President Prabowo, who assumed office as Indonesia’s eighth president on October 20, 2024, after leading the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) to victory, brings with him a distinguished military and political legacy.
Born in October 1951 in Jakarta, Prabowo graduated from the Indonesian Military Academy in 1974, serving in prominent roles such as Commander of Special Forces (Kopassus) and the Army Strategic Reserve Command (KOSTRAD). His transition into politics saw him focus on anti-corruption, renewable energy, and social welfare, including programs providing free nutritious meals for school children and pregnant women.
Strengthening India-Indonesia Relations
President Prabowo’s participation underscores the strengthening of bilateral ties between India and Indonesia. Both nations share a rich history of cultural and economic exchanges, and the involvement of Indonesian military bands and contingents at this year’s Republic Day further cements their shared values of unity, discipline, and mutual respect.
The 76th Republic Day will be a momentous celebration, highlighting the collaborative spirit of two dynamic nations while honoring their respective cultural and military traditions.