New Delhi, Jan 26: President Droupadi Murmu presided over the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, unfurling the national flag and leading the nation in commemorating this historic day. The ceremony began with the National Flag being hoisted amidst the playing of the National Anthem, followed by a thunderous 21-gun salute performed using India’s indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.
The President, accompanied by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who were the chief guests for this year's Republic Day, was welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the saluting base at Kartavya Path. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan were also present for the occasion.
This year’s Republic Day Parade marks a special moment, blending 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, showcasing India’s military strength through advanced defence platforms like BrahMos and Akash missiles, and celebrating the nation's cultural diversity with 30 vibrant tableaux. The parade is the first to be held since the success of Operation Sindoor in 2025, and it promises a remarkable display of India's military prowess.
The flypast will feature a stunning array of aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30, P8i, C-295, Mig-29, Apache, LCH, ALH, and Mi-17, soaring across the skies in different formations. The event will also feature a grand cultural performance by 2,500 artists, celebrating the themes of Vande Mataram and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India).
Adding to the significance of this year’s celebrations, participants of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio show ‘Mann ki Baat’, construction workers of Kartavya Bhawan, Lakhpati Didis, and around 10,000 special guests from diverse fields will join the event to witness the historic parade.
The Defence Ministry revealed that the special guest list includes individuals who have made significant contributions to income and employment generation, as well as innovators, researchers, start-ups, self-help groups, and those excelling under key government initiatives.
In a heartwarming revival of tradition, the President and Chief Guests were escorted to Kartavya Path by the President’s Bodyguard, the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army. After a gap of 40 years, they arrived in the ‘Traditional Buggy,’ bringing a regal charm to the occasion and adding to the grandeur of the Republic Day celebrations.
