On January 26, 2026, India marked its 77th Republic Day with a grand ceremonial parade along Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The event began at 10:30 am and continued for about 90 minutes, drawing massive crowds at the venue and a huge television and online audience across the country and around the world.
This year’s Republic Day celebrations followed the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, honouring the national song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875. During the independence movement, the song became a powerful expression of unity and resistance, and even today it inspires deep pride and patriotism among Indians.
The parade was led in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with senior government officials. Prominent leaders from European nations attended as special guests, highlighting India’s expanding global partnerships and its increasing influence on the world stage.
A Proud Moment for the Nation: Parade Begins at Kartavya Path
As part of long-standing tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began the Republic Day events by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial near India Gate. He was joined by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The tribute honoured soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation.
After this solemn ceremony, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries moved to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path. Soon after, President Droupadi Murmu arrived in the traditional buggy, escorted by the President’s Bodyguard — the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army.
The National Flag was unfurled, followed by the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute, fired using indigenously developed artillery guns. With this, the Republic Day Parade officially began.
Theme Focus: 150 Years of “Vande Mataram”
The theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram” is at the heart of the 2026 Republic Day celebrations. From colourful tableaux to cultural performances, the national song is woven into every part of the event.
Large backdrops along Kartavya Path displayed historic paintings and verses of Vande Mataram, including reproductions of artwork by renowned artist Tejendra Kumar Mitra. These visuals reminded viewers of the song’s role in uniting Indians during the struggle for independence.
The theme connects India’s freedom movement, its rich cultural identity, and its modern national goals, sending a strong message of unity, pride, and progress.
Chief Guests From Europe Highlight Strong Global Ties
Adding international importance to the event, Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, attended the parade as chief guests.
They received a Guard of Honour upon their arrival in India and are expected to take part in high-level talks with Indian leaders. Their presence reflects strengthening India-EU relations, especially in areas like trade, technology, security, and global cooperation.
Military Might and New Defence Units on Display
One of the most watched parts of the Republic Day Parade is the defence showcase, and this year did not disappoint.
India displayed advanced military equipment, including:
- BrahMos and Akash missile systems
- Arjun Main Battle Tank
- Suryastra rocket launcher with deep-strike capability
For the first time, the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion and the Shaktiban Regiment marched in the parade. The Shaktiban Regiment is equipped with drone, counter-drone, and loiter munition systems, showing India’s focus on modern warfare technology.
A tri-services tableau highlighting weapons used during Operation Sindoor was another major attraction, drawing loud applause from the crowd.
Cultural Performances Reflect India’s Diversity
Around 2,500 artists from all states and union territories took part in cultural performances during the parade. Their colourful costumes, traditional music, and energetic dances celebrated India’s vast cultural diversity.
A total of 30 tableaux — 17 from states and union territories and 13 from central ministries and departments — rolled down Kartavya Path. These displays followed themes like “Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, highlighting development, self-reliance, and national pride.
About 10,000 special guests, including citizens who have made contributions in various fields, were invited to witness the celebrations.
Ashoka Chakra Awarded to Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla
In a proud moment for the nation, President Droupadi Murmu awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
Shukla made history last year by becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission. He is only the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma in 1984, who was also honoured with the Ashoka Chakra.
The announcement received widespread attention in Latest News sections across the country.
How to Watch and Nationwide Celebrations
The Republic Day Parade was broadcast live on Doordarshan and streamed on its official YouTube channel, allowing people across India and the world to watch the event.
At the same time, Republic Day celebrations took place in states and union territories. Governors unfurled the National Flag in cities like Chennai and Hyderabad, while chief ministers and officials attended local parades and award ceremonies.
Leaders from across the political spectrum, including Rahul Gandhi and the Indian Air Force, shared Republic Day greetings, calling the Constitution the backbone of Indian democracy.
