Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a two-day visit to France where he will have the honour of being the guest of honour at the annual Bastille Day Parade. He visits France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron.
BASTILLE DAY PARADE AND INDIA
A 269-member Indian tri-service contingent will participate in the parade, showcasing the strong bond between India and France. Adding to the spectacle, three Rafale fighter jets from the Indian Air Force will join the flypast alongside their French counterparts.
Apart from the parade, Prime Minister Modi will engage in discussions with President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen cooperation in various crucial areas, including defence, space, trade, and investment.
Following his visit to France, PM Modi is scheduled to travel to Abu Dhabi, further enhancing diplomatic ties and exploring new avenues of collaboration.
BASTILLE DAY
Bastille Day, celebrated annually on July 14th, holds great historical significance as it commemorates the momentous event of the storming of the Bastille in 1789. The Bastille, a fortress-turned-prison, stood as a symbol of oppression and political dissent during the time of the Bourbon monarchy in France.
The storming of the Bastille marked a turning point in French history, representing the people’s rebellion against the autocratic regime and their demand for a more democratic and egalitarian society. This act of defiance became a powerful symbol of the fight for liberty, equality, and justice.
Today, Bastille Day is a joyous occasion for the French people, serving as a celebration of national unity and the unique French way of life. Festivities include parades, fireworks, cultural events, and communal gatherings that reflect the spirit of the French Revolution and the values it stood for.
On this day, people come together to honour their history, embrace the principles of freedom and equality, and pay tribute to the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for a more just society. It serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of democracy and the pursuit of a fair and inclusive society for all.
Bastille Day is not only a celebration of the French nation but also a global symbol of the triumph of the human spirit in the face of oppression. It stands as a testament to the power of unity and the belief in the fundamental rights and dignity of every individual.