A Grand Parade at Kartavya Path Sets the Tone
India marked its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with a full-scale parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, showcasing military power, cultural heritage, and India’s development journey. The boulevard turned into a national stage with marching contingents, colourful state tableaux, and aerial displays that wrapped up with a dramatic air show.
Thousands gathered to witness the spectacle as President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the celebrations alongside global dignitaries.
European Leaders Attend as Chief Guests
This year’s celebrations carried a strong global diplomatic angle.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa attended as chief guests during their state visit to India, highlighting growing India-EU ties.
Their presence also coincided with progress on a long-pending India-EU free trade agreement, adding geopolitical significance to the parade.
Military Might and Tech Power on Display
The parade leaned heavily on defence and technology.
India showcased indigenous artillery, missile systems, and advanced weapon platforms, underlining its push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
A tri-services tableau titled “Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness” symbolised coordinated military strength across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Indian Air Force flypast, featuring Rafale, Sukhoi, and other aircraft, capped the event with precision manoeuvres that drew loud applause from spectators.
Cultural Tableaux Reflect India’s Diversity
Seventeen states presented tableaux celebrating culture, freedom struggle history, and development themes like self-reliance and unity.
The overarching themes—“Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat”—were visible across floats, performances, and visual storytelling.
Heavy Security and Tech Surveillance in Delhi
New Delhi witnessed one of its largest security deployments in recent years.
Around 30,000 police personnel, AI-powered surveillance systems, rooftop snipers, and multi-layer barricades were deployed to secure the celebrations.
The extensive measures reflected the scale and high-profile nature of the event, with foreign leaders and massive public attendance.
Gallantry Awards and Special Moments
Indian Air Force officer Shubhanshu Shukla was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry honour, during the celebrations.
Later in the evening, President Murmu hosted the traditional ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan for dignitaries and leaders, marking the formal close of the day’s events.
Republic Day Celebrations Across the Country
Beyond Delhi, flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural programmes took place across states, schools, and communities, reflecting nationwide participation in the national celebration.
Key Takeaways
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77th Republic Day celebrated with grand parade and fly-past at Kartavya Path
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European leaders attended as chief guests, boosting India-EU diplomacy
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Indigenous defence systems and tri-services coordination highlighted
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17 states showcased tableaux on culture and development
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Massive security deployment with AI surveillance
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The Ashoka Chakra was awarded, and the President hosted ‘At Home’ reception.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was special about India’s 77th Republic Day in 2026?
The 2026 Republic Day focused on defence self-reliance, India-EU diplomacy, and national unity, with advanced military displays and cultural tableaux.
Who were the chief guests at the 2026 Republic Day parade?
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa attended as chief guests.
What theme was highlighted in the 2026 Republic Day celebrations?
Themes included “Vande Mataram,” self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat), and India’s development journey toward a developed nation.
What security measures were taken for Republic Day 2026?
Delhi saw around 30,000 police personnel, AI surveillance, rooftop snipers, and multi-layer security to protect the event.
What awards were given on Republic Day 2026?
Indian Air Force officer Shubhanshu Shukla received the Ashoka Chakra for extraordinary bravery and service.
