The Indian government’s decision to stop its army band playing a traditional Christian hymn during a Republic Day celebration has dismayed Christian leaders. The Christian hymn Abide With Me has been part of the closing ceremony called Beating the Retreat, since India began celebrating Republic Day in 1950. However, from this year onward, the tune will not be played at the Jan. 27 ceremony, which comes a day after the Republic Day celebrations, media reports said quoting federal defense ministry officials.