Sneh Ticku, Pune
Narendra Modi, the prime minister of India, traveled to France for the lavish Bastille Day celebrations. At the Champs-Élysées in Paris, where the ceremony began, French President Emmanuel Macron was greeted by a guard of honor before taking the stage. As the parade’s Guest of honor, PM Modi was present.
The iconic Champs-Élysées were adorned with the red, blue, and white colors of the French flag in preparation for the momentous celebrations. Upon his arrival, Macron warmly greeted PM Modi, and the two leaders exchanged hugs. They also interacted with other dignitaries present at the event.
Macron made a captivating entrance in an open vehicle, accompanied by soldiers on horses, jeeps, and bikes, as he waved to the enthusiastic crowd gathered to witness the Bastille Day parade on France’s National Day.
At the parade, PM Modi was welcomed by French First Lady Brigitte Macron and France’s Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne. He attended the event wearing a traditional off-white kurta and pajamas paired with a navy blue jacket.
The Bastille Day Parade showcased various military displays under the clear skies of Champs-Élysées in Paris. Notably, an Indian tri-services contingent, along with three Indian Air Force Rafale fighter jets, participated in the parade and performed a flypast over the iconic avenue.
PM Modi expressed his gratitude to France on Twitter, stating that India is dedicated to creating a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable planet, inspired by its rich heritage. He emphasized the strong and trusted partnership between India and France and hoped for further deepening of the bond.
PM Modi also spoke to the Indian community in Paris while there, recalling his four-decade relationship with France. He discussed his personal history as the first individual to sign up with Alliance Française, the French cultural institute in India, some 40 years ago.