| 05:41pm, 24th Jan 2008 |
India - The Superpower |
ddon
[Profile - Diary]
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http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/from_our_own_correspondent/7206345.stm
They have been practising for the big Republic Day parade in Delhi this week.
All along Raj Path - the ceremonial road that runs from the presidential palace to the war memorial at India Gate - the military bands have been marching, and the children gathering.
Assorted camels, dressed up in splendid regimental livery, have been put through their paces, solemnly chewing their lips as they plod along.
And above them - for a few days at least - the Union Jack was to be seen, fluttering in an unusually strong Delhi breeze, alongside the saffron, white and green of the Indian tricolour.
Republic Day is a big celebration of Indian power and prestige
Quite like old times? Well no, not at all.
For years the image of India in Britain seemed to be stuck in the past. It was all about tea and cricket and faint imperial echoes.
But those days are long gone.
Republic Day is a big celebration of Indian power and prestige. And this is a country feeling pretty good about itself at the moment. |
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