Republic Day 2026 Live: Operation Sindoor Tableau, Apache Helicopters Featured at Kartavya Path

The grand Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi has begun and is scheduled to last approximately 90 minutes. This year’s celebrations mark India’s 77th Republic Day and are centred around the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, honouring the national song by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and chief guests from Europe are present at the venue. According to an official press release, the theme will be reflected throughout the parade, cultural programmes, tableaux, public contests, and outreach initiatives, connecting India’s freedom struggle, cultural identity, and modern national aspirations.

Chief Guests from Europe

The parade hosts Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, as chief guests. Both leaders received a Guard of Honour on their arrival in India on Sunday and are expected to adopt a joint EU-India strategic agenda and broaden regional and multilateral cooperation on January 27.

What’s on Display

The parade showcases India’s development, cultural diversity, and military strength. Key military platforms on display include:

• BrahMos and Akash missile systems

• Universal Rocket Launcher System ‘Suryastra’ with deep-strike capabilities

• Main Battle Tank Arjun

For the first time, the newly raised Bhairav Light Commando Battalion and Shaktiban Regiment will participate, along with Zanskar ponies and Bactrian camels. The Shaktiban Regiment, part of the artillery wing, is equipped with drone, counter-drone, and loiter munition systems.

A tri-services tableau depicting major weapon systems used during Operation Sindoor last May is among the key attractions. Officials said the parade also highlights India’s overall defence strength, newly raised units, and models of modern weapon systems.

Parade Proceedings

The ceremony began with Prime Minister Modi visiting the National War Memorial, where he laid a wreath to honour fallen soldiers. The dignitaries then proceeded to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path.

President Droupadi Murmu and the European leaders arrived in the traditional buggy, escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the senior-most regiment of the Indian Army.

Following tradition, the National Flag was unfurled, the National Anthem was played, and a 21-gun salute was fired using 105 mm Light Field Guns developed in India. The President then took the salute as the parade proceeded.

About 2,500 cultural performers from every state and union territory are participating this year, while around 10,000 special guests from various walks of life are attending the event.