Vande Mataram Theme Sets the Tone for the 77th Republic Day Celebrations
India prepares for the 77th Republic Day parade in New Delhi showcasing Vande Mataram theme cultural diversity military strength state tableaux global guests and a vision of Viksit Bharat future
Delhi: India is set to celebrate the 77th Republic Day with a grand parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, where the Vande Mataram theme takes center stage. Extensive preparations have been completed to present a powerful narrative of India’s journey from the freedom struggle to a self reliant and globally confident nation.
The parade will be held on January 26 under the leadership of President Droupadi Murmu. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will attend as chief guests. The ninety minute event will witness participation from over six thousand soldiers, with strict security arrangements in place due to the presence of national and international dignitaries.
This year holds special significance as it marks 150 years of the iconic Vande Mataram song. The parade will reflect India’s cultural heritage, economic growth, public participation and defense capabilities. The concept of Viksit Bharat will be visually represented through carefully designed tableaux and performances.
The parade will begin at 10.30 am after Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial. The President and visiting dignitaries will arrive in a traditional buggy and receive a ceremonial guard of honour. The national flag hoisting will be followed by a twenty one gun salute using 105 mm light field guns.
Cultural performances based on unity in diversity will be presented by around one hundred artists. Four Mi 17 helicopters will shower flower petals over Kartavya Path, adding color and emotion to the celebrations.
A major highlight will be the display of India’s military power. The Army Navy and Air Force will jointly showcase advanced systems including BrahMos Akash and Suryastra missiles, T 90 Bhishma and Arjun tanks, Rafale Sukhoi 30 Mig 29 Jaguar aircraft along with drones and robotic dogs.
Seventeen states and thirteen Union ministries have prepared tableaux that reflect regional culture, social progress, technology and economic development. Around two thousand five hundred artists will perform folk dances and music representing their states. Due to the rotation system, tableaux from Telugu states will not be part of this year’s parade.
Special attractions include a tableau on the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and another highlighting Gujarat’s role in the freedom movement inspired by Mahatma Gandhi. The parade is also the first major national event after Operation Sindoor, making the defense display particularly significant.
The celebrations will conclude with a flypast by twenty nine fighter aircraft. Balloons carrying the national flag and Vande Mataram banner will be released into the sky, bringing the 77th Republic Day parade to a proud and memorable close.
