India is gearing up for the 73rd Republic Day, and preparations for the January 26 celebrations are in full swing. Before the parade in Delhi, there are several rehearsals so the entire march, stunts, and display of state tableaux go off without a hitch. One such video of Indian Navy men grooving to a Bollywood song has gone viral. 

The song that’s playing is ‘Duniya Main Logon Ko’, from ‘Apna Desh’, the 1972 film. It stars Rajesh Khanna, the first Bollywood superstar, and the song has been sung by Asha Bhosle. 

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While comments have already poured in praising the army’s energy in preparing for Republic Day, the inclusion of the Bollywood evergreen number has drawn special attention. Some have noted how the morale of the troops is out of this world. 

This year, there are going to be some changes in the Republic Day celebrations. For starters, the celebration will begin from January 23, to include Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birthday. The celebrations will continue till January 29. At the same time, the parade will start from 10:30 AM instead of 10:00 AM, so there is better visibility for the flypast events. 

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However, the upcoming Republic Day has not been without its share of controversies. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently expressed her shock and disappointment since West Bengal’s tableau was not selected by the Centre. The state had planned to celebrate Netaji’s 125th birth anniversary and the accomplishments of the Indian National Army. 

At the time, the Centre responded that several factors were considered in the selection process and it stood to reason that not all states could make the list. While the Indian Army and Netaji’s own valour continues to be celebrated in the nation, by its citizens, states often end up robbed of the opportunity to hail the same heroes.