Preparations have begun across India for the 77th Republic Day — a momentous occasion that marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution and symbolizes the unity, diversity, and rich heritage of the country.
(Infographic courtesy: X@MinOfCultureGoI)
With the theme of 150 years of Vande Mataram, this year's Republic Day Celebrations will blend tradition with modern India’s aspirations, bringing together history, patriotism, culture, and India’s progress. Organized by the Ministry of Defence, the celebrations will be held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2026.
Paintings illustrating the verses of Vande Mataram, created in 1923, will be displayed along Kartavya Path. Cultural and musical performances inspired by the national song will be organized across the country between January 19 and 26, 2026. Floral decorations, invitation cards, videos, and tableaux will also reflect this theme.
Special guests invited to witness parade
The President of the European Council, António Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will be the Chief Guests at the Republic Day Parade 2026.
Close to 10,000 special guests from different walks of life have been invited to witness the 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on January 26, 2026, the Ministry of Defence said in an official statement.
The guests include individuals who have carried out exemplary work in income and employment generation, leading innovators, researchers and start-ups, self-help groups, and best performers under key government initiatives. They have been invited to honor their contributions to nation-building and increase Jan Bhagidari in events of national importance, the ministry said.
Robust security plans in place for R-Day
A multi-layered cordon comprising Delhi Police and Paramilitary forces has been deployed, and the entire area is under constant vigil via an extensive network of CCTV cameras integrated with an advanced Facial Recognition System (FRS), according to a report in The Hindu.
“Specialized anti-drone units and sniper teams have been positioned on high-rise buildings to monitor the airspace and surroundings. Rigorous verification of hotels, guest houses, tenants, and servants is being conducted across the district to eliminate any potential risks,” a senior police officer said.
As part of preventive measures, the New Delhi District Police is conducting extensive verification drives of hotels, guesthouses, tenants, and domestic help across the district to neutralize any potential security threats. Citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police personnel.
To mark 150 years of Vande Mataram, the Ministry of Culture will present a special dance performance featuring 2500 artists. (Photo courtesy: X@MinOfCultureGoI)
.jpg)
Soldiers from Assam's paramilitary force organised a Freedom Run on January 20 as a prelude to the Republic Day celebrations. (Photo courtesy: X@official_dgar)
Tableaux and other key events
A total of 30 tableaux from states, union territories, ministries, and departments will roll down Kartavya Path, showcasing India’s culture, heritage, innovation and self-reliance.
Around 2,500 artists will take part in the cultural performance during the parade. Other major events linked to Republic Day 2026 include Bharat Parv at Red Fort, the National School Band Competition, Project Veer Gatha 5.0, and the PM’s NCC Rally.
For the first time, the Indian Army will showcase a Battle Array Formation during the parade. The military display will include marching contingents, mechanized columns, modern weapons systems, drones, tanks and missile platforms. A special veterans’ tableau by the Indian Air Force will also be part of the parade, honouring the contribution of former service personnel.
