“150 Years of Vande Mataram — Unity, Pride, and Progress of Bharat”
India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with a majestic parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, commemorating the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. The celebrations echoed the core democratic ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, while highlighting India’s rising global stature.
For the first time in history, two European Union leaders attended India’s Republic Day together:
António Costa, President of the European Council
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
President Droupadi Murmu arrived with the dignitaries in a ceremonial buggy, symbolizing India’s growing diplomatic partnership with the European Union in areas like trade, technology, climate action, and strategic cooperation.
Theme & Major Highlights
The 2026 Republic Day theme, “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, honored the iconic national song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. The theme resonated across the parade through:
30 vibrant tableaux from states, union territories, and ministries
Pan-India band performances by Tri-Services and CAPFs
Cultural presentations highlighting India’s unity in diversity
Indian Army’s powerful “Battle Array” showcasing military strength
The ancestral roots of Vande Mataram in West Bengal were specially highlighted through music and performances.
Special Guests & Jan Bhagidari
Nearly 10,000 special guests were invited as part of the government’s “Jan Bhagidari” initiative, recognizing contributors to nation-building. These included:
The guests also visited the National War Memorial and PM Sangrahalaya, strengthening public connection with India’s heritage.
Key Events & National Significance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the nation, urging citizens to move forward with renewed energy toward the vision of Viksit Bharat. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described her participation as an “honor of a lifetime.”
The celebrations bridged the spirit of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav with Atmanirbhar Bharat, featuring public competitions, cultural outreach, and youth participation across the country.
India’s Global Message in 2026
Republic Day 2026 stood as a powerful statement of India’s democratic resilience, technological ambition, and global partnerships. With strengthened India-EU relations and inclusive domestic growth, the celebrations reflected a confident nation shaping the future.
“150 Years of Vande Mataram — Unity, Pride, and Progress of Bharat”
