India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day with a grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu took the salute as India showcases its military strength, cultural diversity, and achievements of New India.

India Celebrates 77th Republic Day with Spectacular Parade in Delhi
This year's Republic Day witnessed a historic moment in the line of duty. CRPF Assistant Commandant Simran Bala led the all-male marching contingent. This achievement is not just a personal success but a strong declaration of women's leadership in the Indian security forces. Simran Bala demonstrated that discipline, courage, and competence are not bound by gender.
Simran Bala was born in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite limited resources and challenging social circumstances, she dreamed big. Always diligent in her education, she completed a bachelor's degree in political science and successfully cleared the UPSC CAPF exam, becoming an Assistant Commandant in the CRPF.
Republic Day Parade begin with the National Anthem
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial
PM Modi shares his thoughts at the National War Memorial on Republic Day in a special Digital Patrika
PM Modi pays tribute to our brave heroes at the National War Memorial on Republic Day. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed the Prime Minister. The three service chiefs and CDS Anil Chauhan were also present.
Ursula von der Leyen is currently the President of the European Commission, the highest administrative body of the 27 EU countries. Elections for this position are held every five years. Von der Leyen was first elected in 2019 and won a second consecutive term in 2024. She belongs to Germany's leading party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), and served as Defense Minister in Chancellor Angela Merkel's government.
Samajwadi Party national president Akhilesh Yadav wished the nation a very Happy Republic Day. He noted that this year’s Republic Day is special as both the date and year are 26. He urged citizens to take a pledge to protect the Constitution and democracy. Akhilesh Yadav concluded his message with a patriotic “Jai Hind!”
He added, “This is a unique Republic Day in independent India’s history, with the date and year both being 26. On this special occasion, let us reaffirm our commitment to uphold democracy and its foundation, the Constitution. Jai Hind!”
LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi wrote on X, 'Our Constitution is every Indian’s greatest weapon - it is our voice, our shield protecting our rights.
'On this strong foundation stands our Republic, which will be empowered through equality and harmony.
'Protecting the Constitution is protecting the Indian Republic - it is the truest tribute to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters.
'Jai Hind! Jai Samvidhan!'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Republic Day greetings. In a post shared on social media, PM Modi wrote, "Best wishes on Republic Day. May this occasion add renewed energy and enthusiasm in our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat."
India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day today with great pride and enthusiasm. The Central Government has made grand preparations to make this occasion special. This year, special emphasis has been placed on public participation in the celebrations, including participation from para-athletes, the transgender community, farmers, scientists, and ordinary citizens.
On the morning of January 26th, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay a wreath at the National War Memorial. Following this, the Republic Day Parade will commence. The parade will be held from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm on the Line of Duty. The President will arrive in a traditional carriage and take the salute during the march past. Contingents from the Armed Forces, paramilitary forces, NCC, and NSS will participate.
As many as 30 tableaux will be showcased this year, highlighting India’s patriotism and rich cultural diversity. The Defence Ministry said the parade will feature 17 states and UTs along with 13 ministries, departments and services. The tableaux will be based on the themes ‘Mantra of Freedom: Vande Mataram’ and ‘Mantra of Prosperity: Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, marking 150 years of Vande Mataram and celebrating India’s vibrant cultural heritage.
This year’s Republic Day parade is themed ‘150 Years of Vande Mataram’, highlighting the historic national song by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and its role in inspiring patriotism and freedom. A special tableau, ‘From Struggle to Nation-Building’, will honour ex-servicemen, showcasing the Amar Jawan Jyoti and 3D models of iconic tanks, fighter jets and naval ships, reflecting India’s military valour and nation-building journey.
New Delhi: Today, the country is celebrating its 77th Republic Day with great pride and enthusiasm. President Droupadi Murmu will take the salute of the parade at the main ceremony held on the path of duty in the National Capital, Delhi. European Union President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa will be present as Chief Guests on this historic occasion. Follow every small and big update from Kartavya Path in this live blog.