Mumbai, Jan. 26 -- Pomp, pageantry and patriotic fervour marked the 71st Republic Day celebrations with the participation of lakhs of people in Mumbai and across Maharashtra, here on Sunday.

The main official state function was held at the Shivaji Park, where Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari unfurled the National Tricolour and then took the salute at the ceremonial parade.

Present on the occasion were Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Legislative Council Chairman Ramraje Naik-Nimbalkar, Speaker Nana Patole, Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar, ministers, officials, diplomats, members of the armed corps stationed in Mumbai, prominent citizens, students and other invitees.

Addressing the gathering in Marathi, Governor Koshyari announced the launc...