New Delhi, January 26, 2026:
India on Monday celebrated its 77th Republic Day with grandeur and patriotic fervour, marking the historic adoption of the Constitution of India, which came into force on January 26, 1950, transforming the country into a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic.
The highlight of the national celebrations was the spectacular Republic Day parade held along Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) in the national capital. President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, presided over the ceremony, unfurled the national flag, and took the salute, accompanied by a 21-gun salute and a ceremonial guard of honour.
EU Leaders Attend as Joint Chief Guests
In a significant diplomatic gesture, India invited two top leaders of the European Union as joint Chief Guests for the Republic Day celebrations for the first time:
- Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
- António Costa, President of the European Council
Their presence underscored the growing India–European Union strategic partnership, reflecting enhanced cooperation in areas such as trade, technology, defence, climate action, digital transformation, and global supply-chain resilience.
Theme: 150 Years of “Vande Mataram”
The central theme of Republic Day 2026 was the sesquicentenary (150 years) of “Vande Mataram”, the iconic patriotic song composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, first published in 1882. The song, which played a pivotal role during India’s freedom struggle, continues to symbolize national unity and pride.
The theme found expression through:
- Thematic tableaux and cultural performances
- Special musical renditions and visual presentations
- Messages highlighting cultural heritage, national unity, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Parade Showcases Military Strength and Cultural Diversity
The nearly 90-minute parade offered a vivid display of India’s military prowess, technological advancement, and cultural diversity.
- Marching contingents from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force showcased discipline and precision
- Advanced defence equipment on display included BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Apache attack helicopters, Dhanush artillery guns, Divyastra, and Shaktibaan systems
- The Indian Air Force flypast featured fighter aircraft and helicopters, with a special formation carrying the “Operation Sindoor” flag
- A tri-services tableau highlighted themes related to national security and recent strategic operations
Adding to the cultural richness, 17 tableaux from States and Union Territories, along with those from central ministries and departments, depicted India’s regional diversity, development initiatives, and cultural heritage. An EU contingent also participated symbolically, carrying the European Union flag.
The parade commenced around 10.30 am, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes at the National War Memorial, honouring the sacrifices of India’s fallen soldiers.
Celebrations Across the Nation
Republic Day was celebrated across the country with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural programmes at state capitals, district headquarters, schools, colleges, and government offices. Cities were illuminated with tricolour-themed decorations and lights.
Educational institutions organised special assemblies, patriotic programmes, essay-writing and painting competitions, including MyGov initiatives centred on themes such as “Samriddhi Ka Mantra – Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
A Moment of National Pride
Republic Day 2026 stood as a reminder of India’s democratic values—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—enshrined in the Constitution. As the nation reflected on 77 years of republican governance, the celebrations reaffirmed India’s emergence as a confident global power, firmly rooted in its civilisational ethos and democratic ideals.
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
