The National Salute, popularly known as the 21-gun salute or ‘Ekees Topon ki Salami’, remains one of the most revered and symbolic rituals of India’s Republic Day celebrations. Rendered in honour of the President of India — the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces — the salute represents the highest form of military respect and, by extension, pays tribute to the sovereign Republic.

At its core, the National Salute symbolises the authority of the Constitution and the supremacy of the people in a democratic republic. Unlike monarchies or colonial regimes, the President embodies the collective will of citizens, making the salute a reaffirmation of democratic equality rather than individual power. It also reflects peaceful intent, unity and the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to uphold the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.