Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on the 77th Republic Day, urging renewed resolve to build a Viksit Bharat. President Droupadi Murmu led the parade, with European Union leaders as chief guests. The theme, 150 Years of Vande Mataram, highlighted cultural and military displays.
India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, marking the anniversary of the Constitution's adoption. Prime Minister Modi posted on X, 'Best wishes on Republic Day. May this occasion add renewed energy and enthusiasm in our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat.' In her eve-of-Republic Day address, President Murmu described India as the world's fastest-growing major economy, emphasizing self-reliance. She highlighted women's contributions, noting over 10 crore women in self-help groups and 46 percent representation in Panchayati Raj institutions.
The parade commenced at 10:30 am at Kartavya Path and lasted 90 minutes. Chief guests were Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Centered on the theme '150 Years of Vande Mataram,' it featured cultural performances, state tableaux, and military displays. BrahMos, Akash missiles, Suryastra rocket launcher, Arjun tank, and the new Bhairav commando battalion participated for the first time. Replicas of weapons from Operation Sindoor were showcased.
Around 2,500 artistes and 10,000 special guests took part. The Prime Minister laid a wreath at the National War Memorial. The President unfurled the national flag, followed by a 21-gun salute. Security was tight, with over 30,000 police personnel deployed in Delhi-NCR. The event showcased India's cultural diversity, development journey, and military prowess.
