The immensely successful celebrations on 26th Jan 2014 brought with it some clear lessons, and hidden messages. Here is an analysis of the same.

1. India and Japan are drawing closer than ever : The common irritant China is bringing the two giants close enough to warrant global attention. Exactly the same story is with Indonesia as well (1950 and 2011).

2. A clear message to China : Past few months have been acrimonious between China and Japan, with Mr Abe’s nationalistic fervour (post the ADIZ of China) rubbing the Chinese wrongly. India seems to have seized the moment well.

3. Women are marching ahead : The presence of lady officers throughout the parade, including at IAF’s lead position, is an unmistakable message to India. Way to go ladies!

4. We are one, the system is such : Despite intense rivalry bordering, at times, on the ridiculous, all political leaders were present as part of one big system. The system is above all. A healthy sign. Not all nations enjoy this privilege.

5. Shinzo knows no English, Japan won’t become undeveloped : Mr Abe was being helped throughout by his translators in understanding the commentary. So the top guy at the top economy knows little English, but he is neither ashamed of it, nor is Japan affected by it. Food for thought for Indians.

6. A wide spectrum of competencies : Much to everyone’s surprise, the proud display of mighty Agni V was replaced by a scaled down version of the Arihant sub. While this reflects India’s respect for Japanese sensitivity towards nuclear missile displays (remember 1945), it shows we have enough in our arsenal to not miss the overall opportunity.

7. What a diverse nation we are : Yes, we know it already, but when the colours run riot on Rajpath on the 26th, it can bring tears of happiness to all Indians’ eyes! There surely would be very few in the world that can claim a matching pedigree.

With 81 crore voters – that’s 81,00,00,000 individuals! – we are entering into a totally new level of political game in India. The next 10 years will change everything. And rest assured, no single man or party will come to dominate the system, given our diversity and constitutional structures. So good for us. Jai Hind!