A tourist from Ahmedabad in Gujarat marked Republic Day celebrations at Srinagar’s iconic Ghanta Ghar in Lal Chowk by painting himself in the colours of the Tricolour, carrying a miniature BrahMos missile model, waving the National Flag and raising slogans of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” The tourist, Arun, extended his Republic Day wishes to people across the country and said he has been visiting Lal Chowk regularly since 2022. He shared that he wanted to convey to the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi that today’s youth not only dream but also witness those dreams turning into reality. Arun recalled that hoisting and waving the Tiranga at Lal Chowk was once considered difficult, noting that Prime Minister Modi was the first to hoist the National Flag there despite challenging circumstances. He added that he has been coming alone since 2022 and proudly unfurling the Tiranga each time.
India observes Republic Day every year on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution in 1950. While the nation achieved Independence on August 15, 1947, it became a sovereign, democratic republic with the Constitution coming into effect. Since then, Republic Day has been celebrated annually with great pride and ceremonial splendour across the country. This year marks India’s 77th Republic Day, reflecting decades of constitutional governance, democratic ideals and national unity, while reinforcing the commitment to justice, liberty, equality and fraternity for all citizens.
Republic Day Parade at Kartavya PathPresident Droupadi Murmu will lead the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on Monday, January 26. The parade is scheduled to begin at 9.30 am, with live television coverage starting at 10.30 am, while spectator entry gates will open from 7 am. The event will highlight India’s cultural richness, military might and technological advancements, and will also mark 150 years of the national song “Vande Mataram,” which has inspired generations with its spirit of patriotism.
Indian Air Force Flypast and Sindoor FormationThe celebrations will conclude with a grand flypast by 29 Indian Air Force aircraft. A key attraction will be the special “Sindoor” formation, symbolising the IAF’s strength and preparedness. Aircraft that were part of Operation Sindoor will participate, including two Rafale jets, two Su-30s, two MiG-29 fighters and one Jaguar aircraft, offering a striking display of India’s modern air power.
Cultural Performances Along Kartavya PathNearly 2,500 cultural performers will present synchronised performances along Kartavya Path during the parade. Inspired by “Vande Mataram,” the performances will depict India’s freedom struggle, cultural diversity and its journey towards becoming a self-reliant and developed nation, blending traditional art forms with contemporary expressions.
Tableaux Showcasing States, UTs and MinistriesThirty tableaux will roll down Kartavya Path under the themes “Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” Seventeen tableaux will represent states and Union Territories, showcasing Assam’s terracotta heritage, Manipur’s agricultural development and Himachal Pradesh’s identity as Dev Bhoomi. Thirteen tableaux from central ministries and services will also be featured, including a dedicated Indian Air Force tableau honouring veterans.
Chief Guests and Ceremonial TraditionsThe parade will be attended by President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen as chief guests. Following tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled, the National Anthem will be played and a 21-gun salute will be fired using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin the day by paying homage at the National War Memorial before proceeding to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path.
Special Invitees and President’s AddressAround 10,000 special guests from various walks of life will attend the celebrations. These include para-athletes, farmers practising natural farming, beneficiaries rehabilitated under the PM SMILE scheme, scientists associated with ISRO missions such as Gaganyaan and Chandrayaan, and industry leaders involved in hydrogen production initiatives. On the eve of Republic Day, President Murmu will address the nation on January 25, with the speech broadcast on Akashvani and Doordarshan in multiple languages.
Tight Security and Traffic Arrangements in DelhiSecurity has been significantly tightened in Delhi ahead of the Republic Day parade. Areas around Kartavya Path and Raisina Hill are under close surveillance, with more than 1,000 high-definition CCTV cameras equipped with facial recognition technology. For the first time, Delhi Police will deploy AI-enabled smart glasses to strengthen threat detection. Multiple control rooms, layered security measures and traffic restrictions have been implemented, with advisories issued to commuters.