As India commemorates its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, the nation is filled with patriotic fervor, celebrating the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. The celebrations highlight India's sovereignty, democratic values, and its progress as a nation.
The focal point of the Republic Day festivities is the grand parade held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The parade, a vibrant display of India's military strength and cultural diversity, commences after the President of India unfurls the national flag. This year, the parade is expected to kick off at 10:30 am.
This year's Republic Day theme is "150 years of Vande Mataram" which evokes the iconic song by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, a great Indian freedom fighter. The theme also includes the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiative, reflecting the country's patriotic spirit and focus on self-reliance. Approximately 2,500 cultural artists are set to perform, showcasing folk dances and music that embody these themes.
In a significant diplomatic move, the top leadership of the European Union have been invited as Chief Guests for the Republic Day celebrations. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council, will attend the parade. Their presence underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and the EU, particularly as both entities move towards a landmark trade agreement. This marks the first time that the EU leadership has been invited, signaling a novel desire to have the European Union as a strategic partner. Both Costa and von der Leyen will be on a state visit to India from January 25-27 and will co-chair the 16th India-EU Summit on January 27.
The parade will feature contingents from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, exhibiting India's military capabilities. A total of 30 tableaux, 17 from States/UTs and 13 from Ministries/Departments, will also be displayed. These tableaux will showcase the country's rich regional heritage, from Assam's tea gardens to Rajasthan's forts. School children will also participate, performing synchronized dances and drills, while a 21-gun salute will add to the grandeur of the event.
In addition to the parade, the Republic Day celebrations include the presentation of bravery awards to military personnel and citizens, as well as the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) to children who have demonstrated exceptional abilities and achievements.
The Republic Day celebrations will be concluded with the Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29, performed by the bands of the three wings of the Indian armed forces at Vijay Chowk.
Citizens can participate in the Republic Day celebrations through online contests and activities organized by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with MyGov. An online poll will also be conducted on the MyGov platform, allowing people to vote for their favorite tableaux and marching contingent.
