Republic Day 2026

Theme and Highlights of Republic Day Parade 2026

This year, the theme of the Republic Day Parade is honouring 150 years of Vande Mataram, the national song of India, which played an inspirational role in India's freedom struggle. There will be 30 tableaus from different states and union territories and performances by more than 2500 artists.  

The parade will be witnessed by more than 10,000 distinguished guests from various walks of life as well as ordinary citizens from different parts of the country who have travelled to New Delhi to watch the parade in person. This year's parade will be unique in that the Indian army will display a phased battle array formation. The parade will conclude with the Indian Air Force's flypast which showcases its combat abilities. 

How is Republic Day Celebrated?

Republic Day is celebrated all over India with great pride and zeal. It's a day to honour the Constitution of independent India. 

National flag hoisting in schools and colleges is common. Cultural events championing India's struggle for freedom is held nationwide. In New Delhi, the national flag is hoisted by the President of India at India Gate. 

The event also pays homage to the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the country. The Prime Minister of India honours the martyrs by  laying putting a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate Circle.

It's followed by a 21-gun salute, national flag hoisting, and national anthem. Awards are presented to the brave soldiers in the form of Paramvir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, and Vir Chakra. Even children and general citizens who have displayed courage in times of adversity are conferred with awards. 

The winners of gallantry awards salute the President in military jeeps. This is followed by India's display of its military power. 

March-past by the armed forces, police, and National Cadet Corps also happens with the President of India accepting the salute from different regiments. The parade concludes when the Indian Air Force fighter jets flypast Janpath. 

Symbols

Republic Day symbolises the right spirit of Independent India. The important symbols of the festival include the exhibition of military equipment, the national flag and military equipment.

January 26, India Holiday

Republic Day is a gazetted holiday in India and is celebrated on 26 January every year to honor the establishment of Indian constitution. The constitution was adopted by the Indian Constituency Assembly on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950 with a democratic system. 

It has been one of the three public holidays in India. Independence Day and Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti are other two public holidays that are celebrated on 15 August and 02 October every year.

Public Life During Republic Day Holiday 2026

As mentioned earlier, Republic Day is a public holiday on 26 January every year. All local, state and national level government offices shall remain closed on the day.  

Commercial outlets and other business organisations shall remain closed or have reduced working hours. Public transport remains unaffected since many locals travel to celebrate the festival. Republic Day parades cause substantial disruption to traffic. There may be increased security on the day.

A good credit score can help you secure lower interest rates on loans and credit cards.

Get Free Credit Score