Kerala Governor Arlekar hoists national flag at Republic Day celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram: Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar hoisted the tricolour at 9 am on Monday during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the Thiruvananthapuram Central Stadium. He took the salute from various contingents, including the Armed Forces, State Police, NCC, Scouts and Guides, Student Police Cadets and NSS volunteers, and delivered the Republic Day address.

Congratulating the people on the occasion, the Governor recalled that India had declared itself a republic 76 years ago and was now entering its 77th year as a sovereign nation. He said India chose to be a republic not governed by any particular religion and described the country's culture as one that assimilates people from diverse backgrounds and treats everyone equally.

Arlekar said India's progress as a nation was rooted in its ethos and traditions, noting that the country is the world's oldest democracy and is regarded as the mother of democracy. "That is why the world is watching India's performance," he said, adding that great expectations rest on the next generation and future leaders.

The Governor said India was moving forward without obstacles and emerging as a global leader in several fields, while stressing that the past should not be forgotten. "This democratic form of governance has been achieved by the people themselves. As stated in our Constitution- 'We, the People'- we dedicate the Constitution to ourselves," he said.

Arlekar welcomed the announcement of the Padma awards and congratulated the awardees. He also remembered former Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan, who was posthumously conferred the Padma Vibhushan. The Governor expressed happiness over the recognition given to personalities from Kerala for their contributions in various fields, including culture and literature.

He congratulated actor Mammootty on being awarded the Padma Bhushan, social leader Vellapally Natesan on receiving a Padma honour, and other eminent personalities.

The Governor appealed to the people of Kerala to actively participate in the upcoming Assembly elections and exercise their franchise. "Let us show that Kerala is moving towards 100 per cent voting this time," he said.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V V Rajesh and other officials were present on the dais. The programme concluded with a parade, followed by patriotic songs and cultural performances by students from various schools.

Meanwhile, Speaker A N Shamseer unfurled the national flag at 9.30 am in the Assembly complex. He received the guard of honour from security personnel and paid floral tributes to the statues of national leaders.

The Southern Naval Command in Kochi marked Republic Day with a ceremonial parade reviewed by Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena. Republic Day celebrations, including flag hoisting and parades, were held at all 14 district headquarters across the state.