India Set to Celebrate 77th Republic Day with EU Leaders

India will mark its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The event will feature prominent guests, including the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, who will attend as Chief Guests. This year’s festivities are expected to showcase India’s rich heritage and significant advancements.

The Republic Day ceremony will commence at 10:30 hrs and last for approximately 90 minutes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the proceedings by visiting the National War Memorial, where he will lay a wreath in honor of fallen heroes. Following this, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will proceed to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.

The arrival of the dignitaries will be marked by a ceremonial escort from the President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army. The event will begin with the unfurling of the National Flag, followed by the National Anthem, accompanied by a 21-gun salute using 105 mm Light Field Guns, an indigenously developed artillery system.

Grand Parade Highlights

The parade will feature a vibrant theme, “Vividata Mein Ekta – Unity in Diversity,” represented by 100 cultural artists who will perform alongside various musical instruments. Flower petals will be showered from Mi-17 1V helicopters, enhancing the visual spectacle. The President will take the salute during the parade, which will be commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area.

A significant highlight will be the participation of gallantry award recipients. Among them are Param Vir Chakra winners, Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar, along with Ashok Chakra winners, Major General CA Pithawalia (Retd) and Colonel D Sreeram Kumar.

Showcasing Military Prowess

For the first time, the parade will present a phased Battle Array Format of the Indian Army, integrating aerial components. The display will include the 61 Cavalry and India’s first indigenously designed Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle. Additionally, the DHRUV Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed version, RUDRA, will showcase advanced battlefield capabilities.

The Combat Elements will feature the T-90 BHISHMA and the Main Battle Tank Arjun, supported by Apache AH-64E and PRACHAND Light Combat Helicopters. Other mechanized columns will include the BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle and the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2.

Notably, a detachment of Special Forces will present advanced unmanned and robotic systems, including robotic dogs and unmanned ground vehicles, highlighting India’s shift toward modern warfare technology.

The parade will also demonstrate India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing, featuring the Dhanush Gun System and the Amogh Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). These systems exemplify India’s commitment to technological advancement and operational effectiveness.

In addition to military displays, the Indian Navy will present a tableau that reflects its evolution, showcasing indigenous platforms such as the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and various modern naval vessels. The Indian Air Force will contribute with a thrilling fly-past, highlighting its capabilities with aircraft like the Rafale and MiG-29.

The celebrations will culminate with vibrant tableaux from various states and ministries, emphasizing the themes of national unity and self-reliance. A total of 30 tableaux will participate, each representing a facet of India’s cultural diversity and progress.

The Republic Day celebrations of 2026 promise to be a grand display of India’s rich heritage, military strength, and commitment to self-reliance, offering a platform for showcasing the nation’s journey towards a prosperous future.