As the sun rises on August 15, 2003, India will wake up to its 57th year of freedom and liberty.

But the clockwork precision one associates with official celebration does not happen by chance.

Hours of rigorous practice, countless mock parades and innumerable security drills lie behind the grand finale that is unveiled to the world on August 15.

Security forces stand in line at the Red Fort as they take part in a full-dress rehearsal on August 13, 2003.

Photograph: Prakash Singh/AFP/Getty Images

Also See: Guardians of Peace