India's 77th Republic Day 2026: Grand Celebrations with Padma Honors and Cultural Tributes
India is set to commemorate its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with a series of spectacular events and honors in New Delhi. The nation will witness the prestigious Padma Vibhushan awards being conferred upon veteran actor Dharmendra and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, recognizing their exceptional contributions to Indian cinema and public service.
Cultural Extravaganza: 150 Years of Vande Mataram
The Republic Day parade will feature a significant cultural highlight as the Ministry of Culture presents a special tableau titled '150 years of Vande Mataram'. This tribute celebrates the sesquicentennial anniversary of the iconic patriotic song, which has been a symbol of India's freedom struggle and national pride. The tableau aims to evoke deep patriotic sentiments among spectators, with Vande Mataram reverberating through the celebrations as a central theme.
Adding to the cultural richness, a collection of paintings by Tenjendra Kumar Mitra from 1923 will be displayed. These artworks, originally published in the 'Bande Mataram Album', beautifully illustrate the verses of Vande Mataram, offering a visual journey through India's historical and artistic heritage.
Military Might: IAF's Op Sindoor Formation
Showcasing India's aerial prowess, the Indian Air Force will perform a remarkable flypast in the 'Operational Sindoor' formation. This powerful display involves seven advanced fighter jets, including two Rafales, two Su-30s, two MiG-29s, and a Jaguar aircraft. The formation is designed to highlight the country's military strength and technological advancements, symbolizing national security and defense capabilities.
Inclusive Celebrations: Special Guests from Uttar Pradesh
In a move towards inclusivity, four transgender individuals from Uttar Pradesh have been invited as special guests for the Republic Day festivities. Etkta Maheshwari, Deepika, Heer, and Ladoo, who are associated with the Garima Grih shelter in Gorakhpur, will travel to New Delhi to participate in the events. This gesture underscores the government's commitment to diversity and social inclusion, making the celebrations more representative of India's multifaceted society.
Live Updates and Preparations
The Republic Day parade and flag-hoisting ceremony will be broadcast live, with extensive coverage of all events. Preparations are in full swing, as seen during the press preview at Rashtriya Rangshala Camp in Delhi Cantt, where tableaux for the 2026 parade were displayed. The nation eagerly awaits this grand occasion, which blends tradition, culture, and modernity in a vibrant showcase of Indian unity and progress.
