India Celebrates 77th Republic Day with Grand Parade

India commemorated its 77th Republic Day on January 26 with an impressive ceremony along Kartavya Path in New Delhi, showcasing the country’s military strength, cultural diversity and democratic spirit.

President Droupadi Murmu presided over the celebrations and welcomed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa as the chief guests for this year’s national event.

The traditional parade saw participation from marching units of the Army, Navy and Air Force, alongside displays of cutting-edge defence technology developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), including hypersonic missile systems. Colourful tableaux from various states highlighted India’s rich heritage and paid tribute to freedom fighters who shaped the nation’s history.

Addressing the significance of the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his vision of building a “developed India” and called for collective efforts to achieve national progress.

The celebrations also underscored the growing partnership between India and the European Union, ahead of a forthcoming trade summit. Political leaders, dignitaries and well-known personalities joined millions across the country in marking 77 years of India’s journey as a sovereign democratic republic since the adoption of the Constitution in 1950.