In pictures: President Kovind, PM Modi attend Beating the Retreat ceremony

Beating the Retreat ceremony

President Ram Nath Kovind (R) arrives to the Beating Retreat ceremony.

(Photograph:AFP)

Beating the Retreat ceremony

Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) arrives to attend the Beating Retreat ceremony.

(Photograph:AFP)

Beating the Retreat ceremony

The Presidential Palace buildings illuminated during the Beating Retreat ceremony at New Delhi.

(Photograph:AFP)

Beating the Retreat ceremony

Soldiers hold the national flag after it is lowered down during the Beating Retreat ceremony in New Delhi on January 29.

The military ceremony is the culmination of the four-day long Republic Day celebrations and dates back to the days when troops disengaged themselves from battle at sunset. 

(Photograph:AFP)

Beating the Retreat ceremony

Marching bands from the armed forces perform during the Beating Retreat ceremony.

(Photograph:AFP)

Beating the Retreat ceremony

Marching bands from the armed forces perform during the Beating Retreat ceremony.

(Photograph:AFP)