The people of Surat celebrated the National festival of Republic Day with great fervor and festivity as Governor Dr. Shrimati Kamla unfurled National Flag on the morning of Republic Day at Yogi Chawk, in this diamond city of Surat, amid playing of National Anthem by police band and showering of flower petals from Army Helicopter. This grand flag hoisting ceremony was well attended by more than one lakh citizens of Surat. Chief Minister shri Narendra Modi also joined Governor to review the parade along with State police Chief and Chief secretary of the State. This impressive flag hoisting ceremony was followed by a blend of beating of drums for 90 seconds continuously to welcome the State level R-Day celebration.
It may be recalled that the State level celebration of Republic Day is held in Surat to enable people of the district participate in the State level event, that usually held at state capital. A series of cultural programmes including tribal dance, songs on “ Tapi river bank” and on Swarnim Gujarat, a special garba on the famous ‘saaris’ of Surat and a traditional Indian dance were also performed.
Impressive Surya Vandana and Yoga was performed by 2500 students of local schools to mark the occasion. As many as 28 attractive tableaux, depicting developmental activities were presented by various Government departments. Tableau of District Election office was awarded first prize.
An impressive march past ceremony was also conducted on the tune of police band. Dog show and Horse show including tent-pegging and jumping remained the star attraction for the people of Surat. Russian P.T., The crowd lauded Motor bike stunt, gymnastic demonstration and band display with cheers.
Governor and Chief Minister greeted freedom fighters of the district. Prizes to the winners of the best platoons and tableaux were given away. Chief Minister Narendra Modi greeted people present in the pavilion by raising hands and people of Surat welcomed Shri Modi with tremendous cheers and applause after the grand function is over.
