Mexico celebrates 200 years of independence from Spain amid security fears.

Despite the elaborate countries across the country culminating in chants of “Viva Mexico”, security has been tight amid fears that drug cartels could launch attacks, with 14,000 police officers patrolling the party in the capital city alone.

Festivities were started off with a group of shamans dressed in white robes and feathers carrying out a pre-Hispanic fire ritual. Mexico declared independence from Spain in 1810, but was at war with the nation until 1821, when Madrid recognised the new nation.

Despite the widespread celebration, correspondents said the run-up to the events has been marred by accusations of overspending, bad planning and security concerns.

"In Mexico, we all live in fear. And the worst part is that we are starting to get used to it," dancer Eric Limon said, who was taking part in the parade.

After the massive parade, the climax of the celebrations was the traditional "grito" (shout of independence) by Mr Calderon, which was broadcast across the country. The shout is an echo of the battle cry of Catholic priest Miguel Hidalgo, who began the 1810 uprising.

However, the grito cry by the mayor of Ciudad Juarez was made behind closed doors, as the city close to the Texan border, which is the centre of the drug-related violence, has left 28,000 people dead in Mexico since 2006.

Guadalupe, east of Ciudad Juarez, has cancelled all of its celebrations. A left-wing politician in Chihuahua Victor Quintana said "This is not a time to celebrate, but to lament."