The Sikh Regiment’s Unique Double Salute: A Tradition of Faith and Valor
During India’s Republic Day parade, the marching contingents of the Indian Armed Forces follow a precise drill as they proceed along Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) from Vijay Chowk towards the Red Fort. Each regiment renders a single, crisp salute to the President of India, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, as they pass the saluting dais. Yet, one regiment stands apart in this ceremonial display: the Sikh Regiment, which salutes twice.
The first salute is the standard military tribute to the President. The second is a heartfelt gesture directed towards Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk, a historic Sikh shrine that marks the site of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru. In 1675, Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed in Delhi for refusing to convert to Islam and for defending the religious freedom of others—a sacrifice that embodies courage, compassion, and the protection of faith.
This poignant custom is no mere variation in protocol; it is a living tradition rooted in an act of spontaneous reverence. The practice originated on January 24, 1979, during the full-dress rehearsal for the Republic Day parade. Captain Injo Gakhal (who later rose to the rank of Brigadier), leading the Sikh Regiment contingent that year, was profoundly moved as the troops marched past the gurdwara. In a moment of deep respect for the Guru’s martyrdom, he commanded his soldiers to “look right” (Dhainay Dekh) and lowered his sword in salute.
The gesture caught the attention of the gurdwara authorities, who were touched by this unexpected mark of devotion. In a reciprocal act of goodwill, they followed the contingent to the Red Fort and offered refreshments along with karah prasad to the soldiers. What began as an impromptu tribute quickly evolved into an official and enduring tradition, observed in every Republic Day parade since 1979.
Over the years, the exchange of respect has grown even more symbolic. In recent parades, sewadars (volunteers) from Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib have showered rose petals on the marching Sikh soldiers as they pass, creating a moving scene that blends military discipline with spiritual homage.
The double salute stands as a powerful reminder of the Sikh Regiment’s storied legacy—one of the most decorated units in the Indian Army—where duty to the nation and devotion to Sikh principles coexist seamlessly. It reflects the broader ethos of the Indian military: unity in diversity, where valor is inseparable from faith, heritage, and mutual respect.
This small yet profound ritual captures the essence of what makes the Republic Day parade more than a display of strength—it is also a celebration of India’s pluralistic soul. 🇮🇳🙏
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