India Celebrates 77th Republic Day: A Grand Tribute to 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’.NEW DELHI – India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on Sunday, January 26, 2026, with an unparalleled display of military prowess, cultural vibrancy, and diplomatic significance. The national festivities, held at the historic Kartavya Path, were centered around the poignant theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” honoring the song that served as the heartbeat of India’s independence movement.
The ceremony began with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute. In a nod to tradition, she arrived at the saluting dais in a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy, accompanied by the Chief Guests of the year: Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The presence of two top European Union leaders signaled a strengthening bond between India and the 27-nation bloc.
Military Might and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
The parade was a masterclass in indigenous defense capability. For the first time, the Indian Army showcased a Phased Battle Array Format, simulating a real-world battlefield deployment. Leading the mechanized columns was the Main Battle Tank Arjun, followed by the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akash air defense system.
A significant highlight was the debut of the ‘Suryastra’ Universal Rocket Launcher System, a deep-strike asset capable of hitting targets up to 300 kilometers away. Other notable displays included:
· Shaktiban Artillery Regiment: Featuring advanced drones and loitering munitions.
· Bhairav Light Commando Battalion: A newly raised unit designed for high-mobility missions.
· Indigenously-built hardware: Including the Nag Missile System (NAMIS) and the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS).
“A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous, and secure. And we all benefit,” remarked Ursula von der Leyen, describing her presence at the celebrations as an “honor of a lifetime.”
Shattering Glass Ceilings: Captain Hansja Sharma
In a moment that scripted history, Captain Hansja Sharma, 27, led the 251 Army Aviation Squadron. Hailing from Jammu, Captain Sharma is the Indian Army’s first woman pilot qualified to fly the Rudra armed helicopter.
Her journey—marked by overcoming a temporary medical rejection and topping her course at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS)—stood as a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment in frontline combat roles. During the parade, she showcased the HELINA missile system, a critical anti-tank weapon.
A Spectacular Aerial Symphony
The winter sky over New Delhi was transformed into a canvas of precision and power during the grand flypast. A total of 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter jets, took part in the display.
The formations, including “Vajraang” and “Vijay,” featured:
1. Rafale Jets: Executing breathtaking vertical maneuvers at speeds of 900 km/h.
2. Su-30 MKI & MiG-29: Showcasing the IAF’s air superiority.
3. C-295 & P-8i: Demonstrating strategic transport and maritime surveillance capabilities.
4. Mi-17 Helicopters: In the “Dhwaj” formation, trooping the National Flag and showering flower petals over the jubilant crowds.
Cultural Kaleidoscope: Vividata Mein Ekta
The parade wasn’t just about steel and fire; it was a celebration of the soul. Around 100 artists heralded the event with the theme “Vividata Mein Ekta” (Unity in Diversity), utilizing a grand array of traditional musical instruments.
A total of 30 tableaux rolled down Kartavya Path. Seventeen states and thirteen ministries presented displays that intertwined the 150-year legacy of Vande Mataram with the vision of ‘Samriddhi ka Mantra – Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Mantra of Prosperity – Self-reliant India).
Diplomatic Milestone: The India–EU Trade Deal
Beyond the spectacle, the day carried heavy economic weight. The visit of the EU leaders is expected to culminate in the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Negotiations, which were revived in 2022 after a long hiatus, are nearing a “historic” conclusion.
The deal aims to create a combined market of nearly two billion people, potentially reducing import duties on European cars to 40% (down from 110%) and opening doors for Indian professionals and students in Europe.
Conclusion
As the final notes of the National Anthem faded and thousands of tricolor balloons filled the sky, the 77th Republic Day left a lasting impression of a nation that is deeply rooted in its heritage yet fearlessly marching toward a technologically advanced, self-reliant future.