India celebrates republic with fighter jets, daredevils

Colourful costumes, fighter jet formations and motorbike stunts by army daredevils marked India's Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.

Thousands gathered in the capital on Sunday to watch the parade of troops from India's defence forces and dance performances.

January 26 marks the day the nation's secular constitution came into effect in 1950.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and other political and government leaders attended, with the visiting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as chief guest.

A daredevil unit performed and some 40 aircraft, including 22 Indian Air Force fighter jets, participated in an air show across a clear sky.

The Indian government says 5000 artists performed over 45 dances.

India achieved independence from Britain on August 15, 1947.