India is all set to celebrate its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. This year’s celebration is very special as it marks the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram. The Republic Day parade will showcase culture, patriotism, and modern military strength.
Republic Day 2026 Theme
The official theme for 2026 is “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, celebrating the song composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. The theme will be highlighted throughout the parade.
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Special paintings by Tejendra Kumar Mitra from 1923 will depict the verses of the national song along the parade route.
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The 30 tableaux will focus on:
- Swatantrata ka Mantra – Vande Mataram (Mantra of Freedom)
- Samriddhi ka Mantra – Atmanirbhar Bharat (Mantra of Prosperity)
Parade Creative Team
The Republic Day parade will have contributions from some top artists:
- Music Director: MM Keeravani
- Lyricist: Subhash Sehgal
- Narrator: Anupam Kher
- Choreographer: Santosh Nair
- Overall Supervision: Dr. Sandhya Purecha
Additionally, Tri-Services and CAPF bands will perform, and the parade will pay special attention to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s ancestral home in West Bengal.
Republic Day 2026 Chief Guests
This year, India invited two top leaders from the European Union as chief guests:
- Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
- Antonio Costa, President of the European Council
It is the first time two EU leaders will attend together, highlighting strong India-Europe ties.
Republic Day 2026 Parade Highlights
The parade will last around 90 minutes and show India’s military modernisation:
- A battle array formation simulating real combat, including reconnaissance units, logistics, and soldiers in full gear.
- Bhairav Light Commando Battalion will make its first appearance.
- Indigenous units such as Shaktibaan Regiment, Drone Power, and Universal Rocket Launcher will be displayed.
- Flypast of 29 aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Apache, and LCH Prachand helicopters.
- Special units like Zanskar Pony, Bactrian Camel, and Army Dog Squad will showcase India’s diverse operational terrain.
Parade Timings and Live Broadcast
- The ceremony begins at 9:30 AM with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying a wreath at the National War Memorial.
- The parade starts at 10:30 AM.
- The event will be broadcast live on Doordarshan and streamed on PIB and MyGov YouTube channels.
Why Republic Day 2026 is Special
The 77th Republic Day is unique because:
- It celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram
- Focuses on Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)
- Marks the first-time attendance of two EU leaders
- Showcases modern military innovations and new units
Conclusion
Republic Day 2026 will be historic and memorable. With its theme celebrating India’s cultural legacy and modern defence capabilities, it reflects the country’s rich history, patriotism, and progress. Citizens can watch it live and celebrate the spirit of freedom and self-reliance.
FAQs
What is the theme of Republic Day 2026?
The theme is “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, celebrating India’s national song by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
Who are the chief guests for Republic Day 2026?
Ursula von der Leyen (President of European Commission) and Antonio Costa (President of European Council).
What time will the Republic Day parade start?
The parade begins at 10:30 AM, after the wreath-laying ceremony at 9:30 AM.
Where can I watch the Republic Day 2026 live?
It will be live on Doordarshan and streamed on PIB and MyGov YouTube channels.
What are the major highlights of the parade?
- Battle array formation
- Flypast of 29 aircraft including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and helicopters
- Debut of Bhairav Light Commando Battalion
- Tri-Services and CAPF band performances
- Zanskar Pony, Bactrian Camel, and Army Dog Squad