Jan 26: The Nation celebrated its 77th Republic Day today with great pride and patriotic fervour, as President Droupadi Murmu led the national celebrations from Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The ceremonial proceedings reflected India’s democratic values, cultural diversity and growing military strength.
The celebrations began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial, where he paid homage to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath. The solemn tribute set the tone for the day, honouring the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom and security.
President Droupadi Murmu arrived at Kartavya Path in a ceremonial buggy, accompanied by the chief guests of the Republic Day Parade—President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. The National Flag was unfurled, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute using 105 mm Light Field Guns, marking the formal commencement of the parade.
On the occasion, the President conferred India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra, on Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, recognising exceptional courage and service to the nation.
The Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path showcased a vibrant blend of India’s cultural heritage and military prowess. The theme of this year’s celebrations was ‘Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram’ and ‘Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, symbolising freedom, unity and self-reliance.
A total of 30 tableaux from States, Union Territories, and Central Government Ministries and Departments rolled down Kartavya Path. These tableaux beautifully portrayed India’s cultural diversity, while also highlighting 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram and the country’s rapid progress driven by innovation and self-reliance across sectors.
One of the major highlights of the parade was the tri-services tableau, which displayed replicas of key weapon systems used by the Indian Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor. Advanced defence platforms such as the BrahMos and Akash missile systems, the ‘Suryastra’ rocket launcher with deep-strike capabilities, and the Main Battle Tank Arjun demonstrated India’s growing indigenous defence strength.
The celebrations culminated with a spectacular flypast by 29 Indian Air Force aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30, C-295, MiG-29 and Apache helicopters, drawing applause from spectators lining Kartavya Path. Adding colour and rhythm to the ceremony, over 2,500 artists presented cultural performances celebrating India’s unity in diversity.
Special guests from various walks of life attended the ceremony, reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the Republic Day celebrations. The 77th Republic Day parade stood as a powerful reminder of India’s journey as a sovereign republic and its unwavering commitment to democracy, unity and national progress.
