The Beating Retreat 2025 ceremony concluded at Kartavya Path today (January 29), marking the formal end of the Republic Day celebrations. The event was graced by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and several other dignitaries.

History of the Beating Retreat Ceremony

The Beating Retreat ceremony has its origins in the early 1950s when Major Roberts of the Indian Army developed the tradition of massed bands. The ceremony is rooted in a centuries-old military tradition where troops, upon the sounding of the retreat, would cease fighting, sheath their arms, and return to their camps at sunset. 

During this time, flags and standards were lowered. The ceremony evokes nostalgia for bygone military customs. Held annually on the evening of January 29, three days after Republic Day, the Beating Retreat takes place at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi. It features a spectacular musical performance by the bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). 

Presided over by the President of India, who is the supreme commander of the Armed Forces, the ceremony pays tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the Indian military. The event has been a part of India’s Republic Day celebrations since the 1950s, following a state visit by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.