Republic Day 2026: Republic Day is celebrated every year on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. The Republic Day celebrations are marked by the grand parade on Kartavya Path near India Gate in New Delhi, followed by a flypast by the Indian Air Force. The Chief Guests for this year’s Republic Day are the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.
As the country gears up for the Republic Day celebrations, a familiar question has once again emerged: Is India celebrating its 76th or 77th Republic Day?
ALSO READ: Why Does India Celebrate Republic Day On January 26? Know Its Historical Significance
Is India Celebrating 76th or 77th Republic Day?
On January 26, 2026, India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, marking the 77th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution. While some subtract 1950 from 2026 and arrive at 76, or assume it is the 78th, this overlooks the fact that 1950 is counted as the first Republic Day, not year zero.
According to official government sources, including the Press Information Bureau, this year’s parade and celebrations officially designate the occasion as the 77th Republic Day. The day is observed with nationwide patriotism, featuring a grand parade on Kartavya Path and other festivities across the country.
A total of 30 tableaux, 17 representing States and Union Territories and 13 from Ministries, Departments, and Services, are set to feature in the 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2026.
"With a broad theme of 'Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram' and 'Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat', the tableaux will showcase a unique mix of 150 years of national song Vande Mataram and the nation's rapid progress on the back of the growing self-reliance across sectors, dipped in its rich and vibrant cultural diversity," a press release stated.
Preparations for the 77th Republic Day Parade are in full swing at Kartavya Path near India Gate in New Delhi, news agency ANI reported. The full-dress rehearsal for the Beating Retreat ceremony is scheduled for January 28, followed by the main Beating Retreat Ceremony on January 29.