A vivid display of India’s cultural mosaic

Friday, 30 Jan, 2026
The magnificent parade at Kartavya Path showcased the richness of India’s heritage. (Photo courtesy: X@SpokespersonMoD)

The 77th Republic Day Parade showcased the strength of India’s democracy, the richness of its heritage, and the unity that binds the nation together.

New Delhi: A vivid display of India’s cultural mosaic unfolded at Kartavya Path during the Republic Day celebrations, as the grand parade celebrated India’s cultural diversity through vibrant performances and tableaux, reflecting the rich and diverse heritage of the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India celebrated Republic Day, highlighting 150 years of Vande Mataram, with great enthusiasm and pride and described the celebrations as a reflection of the country’s preparedness, democratic strength, and national unity.

Sharing glimpses from the celebrations, he said that the parade "offered a glimpse into the strengthening capabilities of India’s security forces. Our forces are truly our pride!”

India was privileged to host the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, during the Republic Day celebrations. Their presence underscored the growing strength of the India–European Union partnership and India’s commitment to shared values.

This year’s parade also included 30 tableaux, with 17 from States and Union Territories and 13 from Union ministries and departments. They reflected themes of ‘Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram’ and ‘Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, merging the legacy of the national song with India’s push towards self-reliance.

Several global leaders, from US President Donald Trump to Chinese President Xi Jinping, extended greetings to New Delhi, highlighting strong partnerships, democratic values, and cooperation across regions.

"On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day.  The United States and India share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies," President Trump said.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored a commitment to advancing the US-India partnership and building on its current momentum. “I look forward to working together to advance our shared objectives in the year ahead,” he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his Republic Day message to President Droupadi Murmu, described China and India as “good neighbours, friends and partners”.