From original compositions of martial tunes to western beats, Indian Air Force Warrant Officer Ashok Kumar has been leading the force band contingent for the last 13 years. He has been part of the Republic Day parade for the last 25 years, first as part of the team and then as team leader. This year, too, he will be leading the band of 72 musicians, including three drummers.

The 48-year-old Kumar will be making history with his appearance in the parade in coming years and is currently inching closer to a feat achieved by an Indian Navy employee who participated in the parade for 27 years. Master Chief Petty Officer Ramesh Chandra of the Indian Navy, who has retired, was part of the Navy band for 27 years. With eight years of service to go, he is hopeful of making history.