Republic Day 2026: How a military parade became India’s R-Day tradition

India celebrates its 77th Republic Day with a parade themed around 150 years of Vande Mataram, military strength, cultural diversity, and Jan Bhagidari. This year's parade features chief guests Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, blending tradition with technology. The Republic Day parade symbolizes India's military might, unity in diversity, and diplomatic stature, continuing a tradition since 1950.