Power loves display. And displays inspire awe; they also intimidate. From ancient times, kings and kingdoms have used battalions not just for conquests, but also for marches and processions that tell a story of might and success. Kingdoms are a matter of the past. So are most kings and queens. But military parades and shows are still around. Apart from the one that India holds every year to mark the day it adopted its new Constitution, there are several parades around the world that combine skills and technology with history and local traditions. Some are no-nonsense affairs — all about straight lines and precision — while some allow for a bit of colour.