On India’s 76th Republic Day, former IPS officer Kiran Bedi took a moment to tell more about probably the most important day in her career-from leading the Republic Day parade in 1975.
IPS Officer Kiran Bedi reminds everyone of one of the toughest challenges she faced in her career in an emotional post from X. As the first female officer in the IPS cadre of Delhi Police, she had to face significant gender bias. “I wasn’t initially given the opportunity to lead the Republic Day parade. At that time, I was the only IPS officer in Delhi Police, and they chose someone else because I am a woman,” Bedi recalled.
She sought out the then Inspector General of Police, PR Rajgopal, to ask him why she had been left out. He was skeptical about her capabilities and asked if she could march 14 kilometres non-stop with a sword in hand. Undaunted, Bedi shot back confidently, “I had completed my training on par with 70 men in my batch. For how long will I keep answering such questions?”
Rigorous Training and Triumph
This conversation marked a pivotal moment in Bedi’s career. She was given the opportunity to train for the challenge, beginning her rigorous preparation in the harsh Delhi winter. Practicing on the Kartavya Path (then Rajpath), Bedi marched in full uniform while carrying a sword, braving the fog and cold. Her resolve to prove her capability was unwavering, and she eventually earned the chance to lead an all-male contingent.
Reflecting back on that history, Bedi expressed her feelings of pride- not only about herself but on behalf of every woman in the country. “It’s 50 years ago since that history-making day. For me and for the women of India, it is a day to recall,” she mentioned.
Watch:
A Durable Legacy
The video, which gained more than 247k views, struck several people. Social media users hailed her as an icon. Comments included “What an inspiring journey! Kiran Bedi, the one and only trailblazer!” while others said, “Her story is a proof that nothing is impossible when you believe in yourself.” Many others termed her an “icon” and “role model for generations to come” and reflected on how her achievements still inspire women in pursuit of equality in any field.