The Gateway of India in Mumbai echoed with stirring patriotic melodies evening as bands from the Indian Army and Indian Navy performed jointly in a spectacular musical tribute to mark the 79th Independence Day of the nation.

Thousands of citizens gathered at the historic monument -- once the ceremonial entry point to colonial India and the symbolic departure site of the last British troops in 1948 -- to witness a mesmerising hour of martial music and national pride. The occasion served as a powerful reminder of India’s journey from subjugation to sovereignty, an official statement said.

The combined military bands enthralled the audience with soul-stirring renditions of patriotic compositions including Vande Mataram, Mera Mulk Mera Desh, Teri Mitti Mein Mil Jawa, Kandhon Se Milte Hai Kandhey, Jai Bharti, Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja, and Saare Jahaan Se Achha.