People in large numbers today gathered on either sides of the majestic Rajpath here to cheer on the marching contingents, colorful tableaux and other performers who participated in the 65th Republic Day celebration.
People had started pouring in at the venue as early as 6.30 AM, even as Delhi Police and other security agencies kept ground to air vigil to ensure an incident-free celebration.
Fly past by the Indian Air Force aircraft and motorcycle displayed by daredevil personnel of BSF Motor Cycling Team were the high points of the parade and left the spectators, especially children spellbound.
One of the stunning feats on motorcycles which drew maximum applause was the "ladder double" performed by two BSF men, one of whom read a newspaper sitting atop a ladder balanced on the bike, while another was sitting on the pillion seat of the bike facing backwards.
The amazing feat drew thunderous applause from spectators who rose from their seats to watch it.
The gallant jawans displaying acrobatic skills made various formations like 'harmony', human pyramid, 'guldasta' (bouquet) and even performed yoga moves while passing through Rajpath, which enchanted the dignitaries.
The highlight of the celebrations came in the end, like an icing on the cake in the form of a scintillating Fly Past by planes and attack helicopters of the Indian Air Force.
The fly past began with 'chakra' formation comprising Mi-35 helicopters in "Vic" formation. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, who sat along with his sister Priyanka and brother-in law Robert Vadra rose from their seats to watch the spectacular feats in the air.
