India Prepares for 77th Republic Day Celebrations on January 26, 2026
India is set to commemorate its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, marking the historic adoption of the Indian Constitution. This significant national holiday honors the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in January 1950, following the country's hard-won independence from British rule. For those unfamiliar with the history, India first celebrated Republic Day on January 26, 1951, establishing a tradition of patriotic observance that continues to this day.
Grand Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path
While citizens across India celebrate this national holiday with immense pride and honor, the festivities officially commence with the iconic Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path near India Gate in New Delhi. This year's ceremony will be graced by President Droupadi Murmu, who will hoist the National Flag, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will lay a wreath at the National War Memorial to inaugurate the proceedings. Thousands of Indians traditionally flock to the national capital to witness this spectacular event firsthand, while those unable to travel can enjoy the parade live from the comfort of their homes.
Republic Day Parade Timings and Broadcast Details
The Republic Day parade will be extensively broadcast and streamed live for viewers across the country and beyond. Scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2026, the parade will be telecast on Doordarshan and streamed live on Doordarshan's official YouTube channel. Additionally, live coverage will be available on All India Radio's YouTube channel and various official government websites. Major news channels in India will also broadcast the event live, ensuring widespread accessibility.
The parade is set to begin at 9:30 AM at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, with live broadcast starting from 10:30 AM. Entry gates will open as early as 7:00 AM, allowing attendees ample time to settle in for the celebrations.
Ticket Information for Republic Day Events
Tickets for the Republic Day parade are affordably priced between ₹20 and ₹100, making the event accessible to a broad audience. For the Beating the Retreat ceremony, tickets for the full dress rehearsal cost ₹20, while tickets for the main ceremony are available at ₹100. According to the official Rashtraparv website, tickets can be purchased online through the Aamantran portal or at various physical counters located at:
- Sena Bhawan
- Shastri Bhawan
- Jantar Mantar
- Parliament House
- Rajiv Chowk metro station
- Kashmere Gate metro station
All attendees must present valid identification, such as an Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Driving Licence, PAN Card, Passport, or an ID card issued by the Central or State Government.
Distinguished Guests and Parade Theme
This year's Republic Day celebrations will be honored by the presence of two esteemed chief guests: European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their participation underscores the international significance of India's democratic milestones. The parade will feature a dominant theme celebrating 150 years of 'Vande Mataram', paying tribute to this iconic patriotic song that has inspired generations of Indians.
As India prepares to celebrate its 77th Republic Day, the nation reflects on its constitutional journey and democratic values, united in a display of cultural richness and national pride.
