Republic Day 2026 Live Updates: PM Modi Greets Crowd At Kartavya Path; Rafale Jets Showcase India’s Military Might As Parade Concludes

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called India a key global partner and said that "a successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure," as top European leaders arrived in New Delhi to attend the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

Indian Air Force has deployed around 20 fighter jets, including the Rafales, Su-30s, and Mirage 2000, along with the Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft, to create an aerial shield against any possible threat to the celebration of the 77th Republic Day parade and associated events till January 30.

A total of 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter aircraft, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters, participated in this year's Republic Day flypast. These aircraft are operating from five different bases.

The Indian Navy and Air Force stole the show at the 77th Republic Day parade, displaying a special Sindoor formation during the Republic Day flypast 2026. The flypast comprised 2 Rafales, 2 MiG-29s, 2 Su-30s and 1 Jaguar in a 'Spearhead' formation, which was dedicated to the IAF's role in Operation Sindoor. While the main theme of the event was 150 years of 'Vande Mataram', the Indian Army's Operation Sindoor was a special feature in the parade, as a mark of duty.

Showcasing a blend of timeless craftsmanship and a universal vision of harmony, the Puducherry tableau during the parade of the celebrations of the 77th anniversary of Republic Day on Monday presented the Union Territory's rich cultural traditions and the inspiring global ideals of Auroville, reflecting a legacy rooted in art, community, and sustainable living.

Gujarat tableau highlights mantra of Swadeshi, self-reliance and freedom at Delhi's Kartavya.

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)'s joint daredevils team showcased their bravery and determination through a number of formations on bikes.

The tableau of Punjab paid a heartfelt tribute to the 350th year of the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, who is revered as Hind Di Chadar, the protector of human conscience, faith and freedom.

After conclusion of the Republic Day parade, President Droupadi Murmu, along with President of the European Council, António Luís Santos da Costa and President of the European Commission, Ursula Von Der Leyen, left for Rashtrapati Bhavan from the Kartavya Path.

After the conclusion of the parade at the Kartavya Path, flypast by IAF Rafale jets thrilled spectators, highlighting India's strength.

The Rajasthan tableau celebrated the glorious heritage of Usta art of Bikaner, a royal art renowned across the world and showcases the artistic beauty and self-reliant cultural heritage of the state. Originally brought from Iran and flourishing under the patronage of the Mughals, Usta art found its true home in Bikaner during the reign of Raja Rai Singh.

The Republic Day Parade ceremony culminated with the national anthem and the release of balloons along with a banner depicting ‘Vande Mataram' at the Kartavya Path in Delhi

The Home Ministry's tableau depicted the historic enactment of the Indian Penal Code (BNS), the Indian Civil Security Code (BNSS), and the Indian Evidence Act (BSA), 2023, which came into effect from July 1, 2024. These laws replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act.

The Madhya Pradesh highlighted legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar with its tableau at the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. 

The Ministry of Culture's tableau commemorated the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram'. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875, Vande Mataram emerged not as political propaganda, but as a civilisational call. Sung in prisons, public gatherings, and freedom marches, the song united Indians across India.

The Indian Air Force marching contingent and the Rafale fighter jets were showcased at Kartavya Path during the Republic Day Parade.

Tamil Nadu's tableau, based on the theme "Mantra of Prosperity: Self-Reliant India," presents a seamless fusion of ancient cultural strength and contemporary technological leadership. It showcases the state as a custodian of tradition and a leader in innovation-driven development.

The Himachal Pradesh decided the theme 'Dev Bhoomi, Veer Bhoomi' for its tableau for Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path. 

The tableau of Uttar Pradesh showcases the timeless grandeur of Bundelkhand, beautifully blending its ancient cultural heritage with the dynamic and rapidly advancing vision of modern Uttar Pradesh. The front features the 'Ekamukh Linga', one of the most famous stone sculptures from Kalinjar, symbolising Bundelkhand's deep spiritual roots and extraordinary architectural heritage.

European Commission President and India’s chief guest for this year, Ursula von der Leyen, said it was an “honour of a lifetime” to attend the grand event. “It is the honor of a lifetime to be Chief Guests at the Republic Day celebrations. A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure. And we all benefit,” she posted on X.

Theme of Uttar Pradesh's tableau - Ekmukhiling, Chhattisgarh's mantra of Independence, Vande Mataram, Tamil Nadu's mantra of prosperity, self-reliant India, Gujarat's theme - Swadeshi Minister, self-reliance, Vande Mataram, Nagaland's Hornbill Festival - culture, tourism and self-reliance, Punjab's tableau was dedicated to the 350th martyrdom year of Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Ji, Kerala's water metro and 100 per cent digital literacy, Himachal Pradesh's Devbhoomi, Veerbhoomi, Rajasthan's Bikaner was dedicated to art.

The Akash Weapon System and the Abhra Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile System (MRSAM) were displayed during the Republic Day parade at the Delhi Defence Academy.

Advanced LR-AShM, a hypersonic glide missile debuted at the Republic Day parade being held at the Kartavya Path. Advanced LR-AShM is master of engaging stationary and moving targets and designed to carry multiple payloads for ranges up to 1500 km.

(Screengrab/YouTube)

Jammu and Kashmir's displays is tableau depicting the rich heritage and culture of the region at the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path. 

Kerala demonstarted its tableau at the Kartavya Path in Delhi after a very long time. Kerala's tableau is on the theme - 'Water Metro And 100 Per Cent Digital Literacy'

The Indian Armed Forces presented a powerful tri-services tableau titled "Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness", symbolising strength, unity and protection of national sovereignty through transformed defence capabilities.

Akash Weapon System and the ABHRA Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile System (MRSAM) were showcased at the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. 

(Screengrab/ANI)

A tableau displaying Operation Sindoor graced the Kartavya Path on Republic Day.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police band with Indo Tibetian border police marching contingent perform during the Republic Day parade.

Divyastra and Shaktibaan displayed over Kartavya Path displayed on Kartavya Path during the Republic Day parade.

India showcased its military might at Delhi's Kartavya Path by displaying the Suryastra and BrahMos missile systems.

Nag missile system and Infantry Combat Vehicles were displayed in action during the Republic Day parade.

High Mobility Reconnaissance Vehicle (HMRV), India’s first indigenously designed Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle, is being showcased at the republic day parade being held at Delhi's Kartavya Path.

Indian Air Force Helicopters carrying the flag of Operation Sindoor are being flown at the Kartavya Path in Delhi.

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, is witnessing the Republic Day celebrations along the Kartavya Path in Delhi. 

(image: DD LIVE)

Four Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit shower flower petals in a flag formation as they fly over the line of duty in Delhi. The formation is led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.

The national flag was unfurled by President Murmu at Kartavya Path, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute using the 105 mm Light Field Gun, an indigenously developed artillery weapon system.

Former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates said, "It is my honor to wish India a Happy Republic Day. Republic Day is an occasion when we reflect on the extraordinary promise India made to itself in 1950: to build a nation where opportunity expands, knowledge empowers, and uplifts all. Indian innovation is serving people at scale, not just in India, but across the Global South. I am very excited to join the India AI Impact Summit next month and share our foundation's partnerships, commitment, and how it can help build an inclusive AI future."

The National Flag was unfurled at Kartavya Path in Delhi, followed by the rendition of the National Anthem and a thunderous 21-gun salute fired from indigenously developed 105 mm Light Field Guns, marking a moment of solemn pride and military tradition.

Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military honor, in recognition of his historic achievement as the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station.

President Droupadi Murmu, along with the Chief Guests of Republic Day 2026, President of the European Council António Luís Santos da Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen arrived at the saluting base. 

India celebrated its first Republic Day on January 26, 1950, at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium in the presence of 15,000 people.

The first Republic Day celebrations were held at the Irwin Amphitheatre (now Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium). The country witnessed the strength of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force together for the first time, and over 3,000 soldiers marched during the parade.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived at the National War Memorial in Delhi. He will pay tribute to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the country. The Republic Day Parade will begin at 10:30 AM.

Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at the ceremonial parade during the 77th Republic Day celebrations in Chennai.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unfurled the national flag during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at CM residence in Lucknow.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi extended his greetings to the nation on the 77th Republic Day.

In a post on X, Gandhi called the Indian Constitution “the greatest weapon for every Indian”. “Our Republic stands on the strong foundation of this very document, which will be empowered only through equality and harmony. Protecting the Constitution is protecting the Indian Republic - it is a true tribute to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters,” Gandhi said.

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.

The Republic Day Parade will begin at 10:30 AM with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay tribute to fallen soldiers, before joining other dignitaries at the saluting dais at the Kartavya Path.

As per the tradition, the national flag will be unfurled, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute. The salute will be fired using 105 mm light field guns by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment. The parade will then move forward with the President taking the salute.

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.

Visuals shared by news agency ANI show the preparations for the 77th Republic Day Parade in full swing at Kartavya Path near India Gate in New Delhi. The Republic Day Parade will begin at 10:30 AM with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. 

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.

India celebrates its 77th Republic Day today, January 26, commemorating the adoption of Constitution, which came into force on January 26, 1950. Preparations are currently underway for the grand Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path.

The national capital is on high alert for Republic Day, with over 30,000 personnel deployed, officials said. Around 10,000 officers are stationed in the New Delhi district, which includes the parade route and other high-security zones. 

More than 3,000 CCTV cameras with advanced video analytics and facial recognition systems have been installed across the area, including along the parade route and nearby locations.

Citizens across the country can watch the Republic Day Parade live on television and online platforms. The telecast will be available on Doordarshan (DD National). Live streaming will also be accessible through the YouTube channels of All India Radio, Press Information Bureau and MyGov, along with major news websites. Viewers can tune in using televisions, mobile phones or laptops.

The Republic Day Parade will begin at 10:30 AM with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay tribute to fallen soldiers, before joining other dignitaries at the saluting dais at the Kartavya Path. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the nation on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Heartiest Republic Day greetings to all my fellow citizens. May this grand national festival, a symbol of India's honour, pride, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into your lives. May the resolve for a developed India grow even stronger, is my heartfelt wish."

Welcome to The Daily Jagran’s live blog on 77th Republic Day celebrations. India celebrates its 77th Republic Day today, January 26, commemorating the adoption of Constitution, which came into force on January 26, 1950.