Though a blinding mist sought to be a dampner and an obstacle to India celebrating its 61st Republic Day on Tuesday, the nation and its citizens observed the event with patriotic fervor, gaiety and enthusiasm.

The ceremony commenced with the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, leading the nation in paying homage to martyrs by laying a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate at 9.25 a.m. on Tuesday morning.A tri-service contingent sounded the Last Post on the occasion.

An eternal flame burns at the Amar Jawan Jyoti to commemorate the indomitable courage of our Armed Forces personnel who have made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the motherland. The Amar Jawan, the immortal soldier, is symbolised by a reversed rifle topped by a helmet.

As per tradition, the tricolour was unfurled and the national anthem was played soon after the arrival of the dignitaries.