India celebrated its 77th Republic Day with a grand ceremony at Kartavya Path, led by President Droupadi Murmu, highlighting the nation’s constitutional legacy, military strength, and cultural diversity.
India marked its 77th Republic Day with a grand and emotionally charged ceremony at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The event celebrated the country’s constitutional legacy, military strength, cultural diversity, and national aspirations. President Droupadi Murmu led the celebrations, unfurling the national flag amid a 21-gun salute fired using indigenous artillery, symbolizing India’s growing self-reliance in defense.
This year’s observance commemorated the historic adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950, reaffirming the country’s commitment to democracy, unity, and justice.
Distinguished guests attended the parade, underscoring India’s expanding global partnerships and diplomatic outreach. President Murmu arrived in a ceremonial procession, accompanied by senior political leaders, defense officials, and foreign representatives. In a revival of tradition that had been discontinued for decades, the President and Chief Guests were escorted to Kartavya Path in a ceremonial buggy, adding a regal and historic touch to the proceedings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial before attending the parade, serving as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made to protect the nation.
A senior official described the moment as “a powerful blend of tradition, respect for history, and national pride.”
The parade opened with a precision march-past by contingents from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces, showcasing discipline, professionalism, and unity. A major highlight was the display of advanced indigenous defense systems, including missile platforms, armored vehicles, radar units, and modern artillery, reinforcing India’s focus on self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Several newly developed military technologies made their public debut, signaling the country’s expanding strategic capabilities.
The Indian Air Force flypast featured a fleet of fighter jets, surveillance aircraft, transport planes, and helicopters, delivering a dramatic aerial spectacle. The roar of Rafale and Sukhoi jets soaring above Kartavya Path drew thunderous applause from spectators lining the boulevard. A defense analyst noted, “This year’s parade showcased India’s transition into a technologically empowered military power.”
The 2026 parade featured several historic milestones, including the debut of new elite military units, advanced weapon systems, and special operational formations. Observers highlighted the increasing role of women officers and personnel in frontline and leadership positions, symbolizing the growing gender inclusivity within India’s armed forces. The visual presentation of battle formations, modern warfare equipment, and operational readiness reflected a shift toward realistic and future-oriented defense representation.
One of the most visually striking segments of the parade was the presentation of tableaux from States, Union Territories, and Union Ministries, each narrating stories of India’s heritage, innovation, sustainability, freedom movement, and national development. This year’s overarching theme celebrated 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” the iconic national song that inspired generations of freedom fighters. The floats reflected a blend of historical pride and contemporary progress, highlighting achievements in science, technology, education, digital transformation, environment, tribal culture, and social empowerment.
A cultural historian remarked, “The tableaux act as moving storytelling platforms, presenting India’s past, present, and future in a shared visual narrative.”
Over 2,500 artists from across the country performed synchronized cultural dances, representing India’s diverse folk and classical traditions. Performances ranged from Mohiniyattam and Bharatanatyam to regional folk dances, celebrating the nation’s unity in diversity. Special segments featured schoolchildren, youth groups, martial artists, and National Cadet Corps contingents, reinforcing the role of young Indians in shaping the country’s future. A student performer expressed, “Being part of Republic Day celebrations is an honor we will cherish for life.”
The parade drew thousands of spectators, including first-time attendees who described the experience as emotional, unforgettable, and deeply patriotic. Many citizens expressed pride in witnessing the grandeur of the event live, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A spectator shared, “Watching the parade in person fills you with pride and reminds you of the sacrifices that built this nation.”
President Murmu’s leadership of the ceremony symbolized constitutional authority, unity, and national resilience. The event conveyed a strong message of progress, inclusivity, innovation, and confidence in India’s future — from military readiness and technological ambition to cultural vibrancy and democratic pride. As the celebrations concluded with a spectacular flypast, the 77th Republic Day parade left millions across India inspired, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to democracy, development, and unity, according to GlobalNetNews.