India displays military might, cultural pride at Kartavya Path

India's 77th Republic Day showcased military strength and cultural diversity at Kartavya Path, celebrating unity and national achievements.

India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on Monday (January 26, 2026) with a grand display of military prowess and cultural heritage, as missiles, armed forces battalions and artists competed for attention at the Kartavya Path. While the 150th year celebrations of the National Song, Vande Mataram, was the prominent theme, the event also celebrated the country’s successes during last year’s “Operation Sindoor”.

President Droupadi Murmu presided over the event in Delhi while President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen graced the occasion as chief guests. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted Ms. Murmu and the chief guests, who arrived in traditional horse-drawn buggies, at the podium. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and several other Union Ministers, the military’s top brass, foreign diplomats and senior officials were among the spectators.

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The celebrations began with Ms. Murmu conferring India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, Ashoka Chakra, on Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for being the first Indian to set foot on the International Space Station in June 2024.

Over 100 artistes came together to kick start the celebration on the theme of Vividata Mein Ekta (Unity in Diversity), performing with traditional musical instruments from across the country, to demonstrate the nation’s rich cultural diversity.

The parade was led by Parade Commander Lieutenant-General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer.