New Delhi, January 16, 2026 : India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2026 will be anchored in history, patriotism and military strength, with the parade at Kartavya Path themed around 150 years of Vande Mataram. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Defence, outlining a carefully curated programme that blends national heritage with contemporary expressions of India’s cultural and strategic capabilities.
The Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026, will mark a century and a half since the iconic national song was composed, placing it at the heart of the celebrations. The event will also underline India’s expanding global engagement, with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission invited as the Chief Guests for the parade, reflecting growing strategic and diplomatic ties between India and the European Union.
For the first time, the Indian Army will showcase a battle array format during the parade, presenting an integrated display of its operational readiness and modern combat capabilities. This new format will feature a wide range of equipment and systems, including main battle tanks, missile platforms, artillery systems, unmanned ground vehicles, drones and advanced mobility vehicles, offering spectators a comprehensive view of the Army’s evolving battlefield preparedness.
Cultural expression will remain a central element of the celebrations. Around 2,500 artists from across the country are expected to participate in coordinated performances, while nearly 10,000 special guests from diverse walks of life will witness the parade at Kartavya Path. These guests have been selected in recognition of exemplary contributions in areas such as agriculture, innovation, entrepreneurship, social initiatives and public service.
A total of 30 tableaux will roll down Kartavya Path, highlighting themes linked to national unity, self-reliance and the enduring relevance of Vande Mataram. Visual elements inspired by historical artworks associated with the song, along with floral decorations and coordinated band performances, will reinforce the central theme throughout the parade route. Special pan-India band performances on the Vande Mataram theme are also planned in the days leading up to Republic Day.
The celebrations will further include marching contingents from across the Army, animal contingents from high-altitude and desert regions, and a flypast by frontline aircraft and helicopters of the Indian Air Force, symbolising coordination across the armed forces. A dedicated veterans’ tableau by the Air Force will acknowledge the service and sacrifices of former personnel.
Together, the Republic Day Parade 2026 is expected to present a balanced narrative of India’s historical legacy, cultural diversity and modern military strength, with Vande Mataram serving as the unifying thread linking past aspirations to present-day national confidence.
