New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) For 33-year-old homemaker Jyotsna Singh, attending her first Republic Day parade here was both overwhelming and an eye-opener.

“Words fail me. I wonder why I did not come here before. Witnessing this ceremony has been an exhilarating experience. I want to come here again and again,” Singh told IANS after the two-hour long celebration featuring marching contingents and a stream of colourful tableaux and cultural displays at Rajpath.

People waited eagerly in long serpentine queues since 7 a.m., some three hours before the arrival of the president, prime minister and other dignitaries for the commencement of what undoubtedly is the most colourful and impressive of the repulic’s state ceremonies.

“I am not an early riser but I got up early today just to see the ceremony. Though it is chilly, I didn’t mind as the show is worth it,” said 22-year-old Delhi University student Vikram Singh.

However, some people wanted much more than symbolism.

“I thoroughly enjoyed this show and it feels great, people feel united, but how long will they stay united?” asked 44-year-old Delhi resident Mahesh Arya.

Government staffer Vishwanath Sharma said: “There is need to uproot corruption which is corroding the country. No matter how exultant and proud you feel here, after going back, everything will be back to square one.”