LIVE: India Marks 77th R-Day With Celebrations at Kartavya Path
The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will attend as the Chief Guests on this momentous occasio
New Delhi: India celebrates its 77th Republic Day on Monday, as the nation comes together to mark the adoption of the Constitution and showcase its rich cultural and military heritage.
President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the grand celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will attend as the Chief Guests on this momentous occasion.
This year, Kartavya Path, stretching from Rashtrapati Bhawan to the National War Memorial, has been elaborately decorated to showcase India's remarkable journey. The celebrations will feature an extraordinary blend of the 150-year legacy of the national song Vande Mataram, the country's unprecedented developmental progress, robust military strength, vibrant cultural diversity, and active participation from citizens across all walks of life, according to the Ministry of Defence.
The ceremony will commence at 10:30 AM and run for approximately 90 minutes. It will begin with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the National War Memorial, where he will lead the nation in paying solemn tributes to fallen heroes by laying a wreath.
Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will proceed to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.
The arrival of the President of India, the President of the European Council, and the President of the European Commission in the ‘Traditional Buggy’ will be escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army.
As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled, followed by the National Anthem and a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105 mm Light Field Guns, an indigenously developed artillery weapon system. The salute will be presented by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment.
Nearly 100 cultural artists will herald the parade on the theme ‘Vividata Mein Ekta – Unity in Diversity’, showcasing musical instruments that reflect the nation’s unity and rich cultural diversity.
A showering of flower petals will be carried out by four Mi-17 1V helicopters of the 129 Helicopter Unit in the Dhwaj Formation. The formation will be led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.
The parade will then begin with the President taking the salute.
Live Updates
- 26 Jan 2026 9:54 AM IST
This year's Republic Day parade is set to highlight India's military prowess, with a special focus on animal logistics and natural defence systems. The Indian Army will showcase its unique collaboration with animals, demonstrating their crucial role in navigating the country's toughest terrains. The display highlights the Indian Army's reliance on animals in challenging environments, showcasing their adaptability and strength. For the first time in military history, a dedicated animal contingent from the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) of the Indian Army will march at the Republic Day Parade 2026 on Kartavya Path.
- 26 Jan 2026 9:37 AM IST
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended his greetings to India on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day celebrations. In a press statement, he said that the United States and India share "a historic bond" and that the two countries are working closely on defence, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies. In an official press statement, he said there is a "multi-layer" engagement between the two countries through the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), and claimed that the India-US relationship has delivered real results for both countries and for the Indo-Pacific region.
- 26 Jan 2026 9:31 AM IST
Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi unfurled the national flag in the presence of Chief Minister M K Stalin and other dignitaries at the Republic Day celebration at the Labour Statue near Marina beach front on Monday
- 26 Jan 2026 8:43 AM IST
As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, featuring an extraordinary blend of the 150-year legacy of Vande Mataram, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council, Antonio Luis Santos da Costa are the Chief Guests as India marks its celebrations.
- 26 Jan 2026 8:42 AM IST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on the 77th Republic Day, urging citizens to renew their commitment to a 'Viksit Bharat'. In a post X, PM Modi said, "Greetings to all countrymen on Republic Day. This national festival, symbolising India's pride and honour, should infuse new energy and enthusiasm, strengthening the resolve for Viksit Bharat."
