The 77th Republic Day celebrations revolve around the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” reflecting the song’s historical and cultural significance. The theme is incorporated across the national parade, tableaux, cultural performances, public competitions, and outreach programs. It bridges India’s freedom struggle with contemporary aspirations of national pride and cultural expression.
Republic Day Parade 2026 Highlights
The national parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi will feature:
- 30 tableaux from States, Union Territories, and central ministries themed on Swatantrata Ka Mantra – Vande Mataram and Samriddhi Ka Mantra – Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Participation of 2,500 artists in cultural presentations.
- 10,000 special guests representing farmers, artisans, innovators, women entrepreneurs, students, sportspersons, and beneficiaries of government schemes.
- For the first time, a Battle Array format by the Indian Army alongside traditional contingents and service presentations.
Enhanced citizen participation is encouraged through national competitions on essays, paintings, singing, and quizzes via the MY Bharat portal, linking public engagement directly to the celebrations.
Historical Journey: From Purna Swaraj to the Constitution
Republic Day is deliberately celebrated on 26th January to honor India’s constitutional journey, linking milestones in the freedom movement with democratic governance:
- 26th January 1930: Purna Swaraj Day, asserting the goal of complete independence from British rule.
- 9th December 1946: Constituent Assembly begins drafting the Constitution.
- 15th August 1947: India attains independence, ending colonial rule.
- 26th November 1949: Constitution of India adopted after detailed deliberations.
- 26th January 1950: Constitution comes into effect, establishing India as a Sovereign Democratic Republic. Later, the 42nd Amendment added ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ to the national identity.
This deliberate choice of date ties India’s constitutional authority to its freedom struggle and national aspirations.
Modern Republic Day: National Celebration
Across India, Republic Day is marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural events. The main parade at Kartavya Path begins with the President’s arrival, National Flag unfurling, and a 21-gun salute. Marching contingents, mechanized columns, tableaux, cultural performances, and Air Force flypasts highlight India’s military and cultural diversity.
The day also honors martyrs and bestows bravery awards, with the celebrations concluding on January 29 at the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk, symbolizing the historic military tradition of ceasing combat and returning to camps at sunset.