77th Republic Day parade concludes with grand tribute to constitution, unity and national strength

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unfurled the National Flag in Dibrugarh on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day.

#WATCH | Assam CM Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma unfurls the National Flag on the occasion of 77th Republic Day in Dibrugarh

(Video Source: Himanta Biswa Sarma Social Media) pic.twitter.com/pTpOuU80sb

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

The EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, donned an elegant Banarasi brocade sherwani, calling it a lifetime honour to be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations. She added that a strong and successful India contributes to global stability, prosperity, and security.

It is the honor of a lifetime to be Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations.

A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure.

And we all benefit ↓ https://t.co/boeqFGv15Q

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 26, 2026

The Republic Day tableaux on Kartavya Path offered a vibrant showcase of India’s heritage and achievements. Chhattisgarh’s tableau presented the nation’s first tribal digital museum and honored tribal freedom heroes, while Assam celebrated Asharikandi village, the country’s largest hub of traditional Assamese terracotta artisans, under the theme of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Gujarat paid homage to Bhikhaji Cama and other revolutionaries on the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram,’ and Tamil Nadu highlighted its “Mantra of Prosperity: Self-Reliant India.” Himachal Pradesh portrayed itself as ‘Dev Bhoomi,’ Jammu & Kashmir displayed exquisite craftsmanship, Nagaland showcased the Hornbill Festival as a model of culture-driven tourism, and Punjab commemorated the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji.

#WATCH | #RepublicDay2026 | The Uttar Pradesh tableau presents the timeless grandeur of Bundelkhand, seamlessly blending its ancient cultural legacy with the dynamic and fast-progressing vision of a modern Uttar Pradesh.

The front section features the Ekamukha Linga, one of the… pic.twitter.com/igiMEnmB7r

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

#WATCH | #RepublicDay2026 | Tamil Nadu’s tableau embodies the theme 'Mantra of Prosperity: Self-Reliant India,' presenting a seamless convergence of ancient cultural strength and contemporary technological leadership. It portrays the State as both a custodian of tradition and a… pic.twitter.com/GgSE4ZawY3

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day by sharing a nostalgic photo with his “dear friend” Prime Minister Modi, adding the caption, “See you in February.” The warm social media post highlights the strong personal rapport between the two leaders while confirming Macron’s upcoming visit to India next month, signaling continued momentum in the Indo-French strategic partnership.

What a wonderful memory of the #RepublicDay we shared together in 2024! 🇮🇳🇫🇷

My dear friend @NarendraModi, dear Indian friends, my very best wishes on this great day of celebration. See you in February to continue building together! pic.twitter.com/qQrfonVLqo

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2026

Under the leadership of Deputy Commandant Mahendra Pal Singh Rathore, the BSF’s camel contingent, led by his camel Chetak, paraded along Kartavya Path. Leading the procession were the majestic camels, followed by the unique Camel Mounted Band.

The contingent includes three SOs and 50 camel riders. Known as the “ships of the desert,” these camels are essential companions for BSF personnel navigating the harsh Thar Desert and the Rann of Kutch.

Bringing up the rear is the world’s only Camel Mounted Band, led by Band Master Sub Inspector Amal Chatopadhyay, performing ‘Hum Hai Seema Suraksha Bal.’ Established in 1986–87 by the Rajasthan Frontier, the band remains a highlight of Desert and Marwar Festivals.

#WATCH | #RepublicDay2026 | Camel contingent of the BSF under the command Deputy Commandant Mahendra Pal Singh Rathore mounted on his camel Chetak marches on Kartavya Path. Marching in front of the saluting base are the regal camels of the BSF, followed by the iconic Camel… pic.twitter.com/wwlP3fbctH

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

In a powerful moment of military pride, the 77th Republic Day parade witnessed a spectacular aerial display as Mi-17 1V helicopters soared over Kartavya Path, trooping the Operation Sindoor flag. Led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat, the formation showered flower petals over the cheering crowds, symbolising India’s recent aerial dominance.

77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | Indian Air Force Helicopters carrying the flag of Operation Sindoor are being flown at the Kartavya Path in Delhi.

(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/Em63wMmLc2

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

A remarkable moment in India’s Republic Day celebrations is set to unfold this year as 26-year-old Assistant Commandant Simran Bala from Jammu and Kashmir takes command of an all-male contingent of the Central Reserve Police Force at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Her leadership of more than 140 male personnel will be a landmark occasion for the nation’s largest paramilitary force and a proud testament to women’s growing role in the security forces.

77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | 61st Cavalry Contingent is led by Captain Ahaan Kumar

The 61st Cavalry is the only active horse cavalry regiment in the world, preserving the timeless traditions of valour, horsemanship, and gallantry

(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/BNmQ80y8Ly

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

A message from His Majesty The King to the Hon’ble President of India on Republic Day 2026. pic.twitter.com/e2hAvinlJv

— UK in India🇬🇧🇮🇳 (@UKinIndia) January 26, 2026

The European Union (EU) military contingent marched along Kartavya Path in Delhi, led by Colonel Frederik Simon Spruijt. Representing the Director General of the European Union Military Staff (EUMS), he rode a ceremonial Gypsy, marking the EU’s distinguished participation in the Republic Day celebrations.

77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | The European Union (EU) contingent at the Kartavya Path in Delhi

The European Union (EU) military representation is led by Colonel Frederik Simon Spruijt, acting on behalf of the Director General of the European Union Military Staff (EUMS), on board a… pic.twitter.com/DI6gvXNGuY

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

The Indian Army leads the parade with several units, including seven distinct marching groups, a mounted column from the historic 61 Cavalry and the first-ever Army phased battle array formation. These include mixed Scouts from units such as the Arunachal, Ladakh, Sikkim, Garhwal and Kumaon Scouts, the Rajput Regiment, the Assam Regiment, Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry, the Regiment of Artillery, and the newly raised Bhairav Light Commando Battalion making its debut.

An animal contingent from the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) highlights India’s environmental adaptability, featuring horses, camels and military dogs. The Indian Navy and Indian Air Force contribute their own contingents, emphasising jointness across services.

Uniformed forces such as CRPF, led by Assistant Commandant Simran Bala — the first woman to command an all‑male contingent — march alongside other Central Armed Police Forces. Civilian representations include Delhi Police, NCC (National Cadet Corps) and youth formations.

In a historic first, a European Union contingent with four flag bearers advances down Kartavya Path, highlighting India’s international engagement.

Together with 13 military bands, these 18 contingents provide a vibrant, dynamic showcase of India’s defence capabilities, heritage and unity as the nation celebrates its Republic Day.

MI-17 helicopters showered flower petals as Parade Commander Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar led the parade along Kartavya Path.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been honoured with the Ashok Chakra for his historic mission to the International Space Station (ISS). His 18-day stay in orbit provided critical data for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission.

77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | Indian astronaut IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla conferred with India's highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra

(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/Hhx0YuLKms

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

#WATCH | President Droupadi Murmu steps out of the Rashtrapati Bhavan with President of the European Council, António Luís Santos da Costa and President of the European Commission, Ursula Von Der Leyen.

The two foreign dignitaries are the Chief Guests at the 77th #RepublicDay… pic.twitter.com/juZ8GYHgDw

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi signs the ceremonial book at the National War Memorial, in Delhi

(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/Z3SQL4rBW2

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the bravehearts who laid down their lives for the country, at the National War Memorial, marking the commencement of the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.

#RepublicDay2026🇮🇳: Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the nation in paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial in Delhi

(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/s9SuJfI63k

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

#WATCH | EAM Dr S Jaishankar unfurls the national flag at his residence in Delhi, on #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/nnqQJcGXt7

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

Today, India celebrates its 77th Republic Day with a grand parade at Kartavya Path. Here are five unique facts about this historic event:

1. Unique venue history: For the first five years (1950–1954), the parade moved between venues like Irwin Stadium and Red Fort before Kartavya Path became its permanent home in 1955.

2. Synchronised 21-gun salute: Using vintage guns, the salute is timed perfectly to last exactly 52 seconds, matching the duration of the National Anthem.

3. Flag ritual: Unlike Independence Day’s “hoisting,” the flag is “unfurled” on Republic Day because the nation is already independent.

4. 2026 theme: This year’s theme, “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” honours the national song alongside guests from the European Union.

5. Preparation rigour: Soldiers begin their day at 2:00 am, concluding months of practice totaling nearly 600 hours for a 90-minute display.

Large crowds have assembled along Kartavya Path to catch a glimpse of the grand Republic Day 2026 parade. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other senior dignitaries are expected to arrive shortly for the celebrations.

VIDEO | Delhi: People have gathered in large numbers at Kartavya Path to witness the magnificent Republic Day 2026 parade. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries will be arriving shortly to attend the event.

(Source: Third Party)… pic.twitter.com/Ew8dovhYV6

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 26, 2026

VIDEO | Republic Day 2026: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari unfurls the national flag at his residence in Delhi. Visuals from the ceremony.#RepublicDay

(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/Tqfe43ESZY

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 26, 2026

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India’s Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path began in 1950 after the Constitution came into force, turning a military tradition into a symbol of the republic’s strength. It combines armed forces displays with cultural tableaux to honor unity, diversity and defence capability. The route from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate reflects India’s journey from colonial rule to sovereignty.

Click here to read more.

#WATCH | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unfurls the national flag at his residence in Delhi, on #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/kH62NTdsOr

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

#WATCH | Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis attends 77th Republic Day celebrations in Mumbai#RepublicDayCelebration🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/riE4z2Tb8m

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

#WATCH | Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla unfurls the Tricolour at his residence, on #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/1IPDt29ivj

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

As Delhi gears up to celebrate its 77th Republic Day, security forces have intensified measures across the city. In the Geeta Colony area, Delhi Police conducted thorough vehicle checks while patrolling the Yamuna River by boat. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara), Prashant Gautam, stated, “Proper security arrangements have been made on the occasion of Republic Day… The Delhi Police is also conducting boat and foot patrols… All the border points have been sealed and vehicles are being checked by the police…”

#WATCH | Security forces conduct boat patrolling in the river Yamuna in Delhi on the occasion of 77th #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/BDUXeO9DdD

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

#WATCH | Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat unfurls the national flag at the #RepublicDayCelebration in Tharad, Banaskantha. CM Bhupendra Patel also attends the celebrations here. pic.twitter.com/QfyZrC393Q

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar, a young Indian Air Force officer, will assist President Droupadi Murmu in unfurling the national flag at the 77th Republic Day celebrations in Delhi.

Dhankar told ANI that the honour is a proud moment after rigorous months of preparation and hopes it inspires India’s youth to consider service.

VIDEO | Delhi: Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar to unfurl the national flag alongside President Droupadi Murmu on Republic Day.

She says, “I will have the honour of unfurling the flag with the President of India before the parade begins, which is a matter of great pride for… pic.twitter.com/kgkHnNF5u1

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 22, 2026

#WATCH | Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath salutes the Tricolour after unfurling the national flag at the CM residence, in Lucknow, on #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/IsVam19UBb

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026