New Delhi, January 26: India celebrated its 70th Republic Day on Saturday. This year’s Republic Day parade was an amazing display of ‘Nari Shakti’. History was created during the Republic day celebrations, as Lieutenant Bhavana Kasturi became the first lady officer of the Indian Army to lead an all-male contingent consisting of 144 men. Lt Kasturi led the contingent of the India Army Service Corps. The lady officer appreciated the army for providing her with an opportunity to lead the contingent. Republic Day 2019 Celebrations: ITBP Jawans Hoist National Flag at 18,000ft in Minus 30 Degrees in Ladakh (Watch Video).

Lt Bhavana Kasturi leading the all-male contingent:

She also termed it as a positive change that is taking place in the entire organisation. Lt Kasturi is currently posted at high altitude region of Kargil. Apart from Lt Kasturi, Major Khushboo Kanwar also led an all-woman Assam Rifles contingent, while Captain Shikha Surabhi performed a daredevil stunt by standing on a moving bike. Republic Day Parade 2019 Highlights: India's Diversity, Military Might Displayed at Rajpath, See Pictures & Videos.

Let's listen to what Lt Bhavana Kasturi had to say about leading the contingent:

Marking 70th Republic Day, various events were held across the country. Different contingencies showcased the country's cultural, tradition. Contingents of the all the three wings of the armed forces marched down the lanes of Rajpath in New Delhi. Military strength was also displayed during the parade. The Chief Guest of Honour at Republic Day 2019 was South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The decision to invite him echoes with the fact that he, along with his political mentor Nelson Mandela, have expressed a deep commitment to the ideology of Mahatma Gandhi -- whose 150th birth anniversary is being celebrated this year.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 26, 2019 07:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).