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India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with grandeur at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. This year’s parade carried special significance, marking 150 years of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s iconic national song Vande Mataram. The event drew global attention as European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council, served as chief guests.
The presence of the two top EU officials underscores deepening strategic ties between India and Europe. Von der Leyen delivered a powerful message during her visit that quickly went viral:
I’m so glad to be in India today.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 25, 2026
India and Europe have made a clear choice.
The choice of strategic partnership, dialogue and openness.
Leveraging our complementary strengths.
And building mutual resilience.
We are showing a fractured world that another way is possible.
The parade commenced at 10:30 AM with President Droupadi Murmu unfurling the national flag, followed by the national anthem and a 21-gun salute. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the nation and paid tributes at the National War Memorial earlier in the morning.
I’m so glad to be in India today.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 25, 2026
India and Europe have made a clear choice.
The choice of strategic partnership, dialogue and openness.
Leveraging our complementary strengths.
And building mutual resilience.
We are showing a fractured world that another way is possible. pic.twitter.com/J04vNQbW30
Chief Guests: A Symbol of India-EU Bond
Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa received a warm welcome and guard of honour upon arrival. Seated in the main dais alongside President Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and PM Modi, the EU leaders witnessed India’s military might, cultural diversity, and developmental achievements.
Their attendance highlights India’s growing role in global affairs and the EU’s interest in stronger cooperation. Discussions during the state visit (January 25–27) focused on trade, technology, security, and climate action. Von der Leyen’s statement captured the essence: in an era of geopolitical tensions, India and Europe choose collaboration over confrontation.
The duo’s joint presence marks a rare occasion where both top EU positions attend a single foreign event, emphasizing the priority India holds in European foreign policy.
Showstopper: 150 Years of Vande Mataram Tableau
Among the 30 tableaux from states, Union Territories, ministries, and departments, the one celebrating 150 years of Vande Mataram emerged as the crowd favorite. The Ministry of Culture’s display featured a moving tractor carrying the original manuscript of the song, surrounded by folk artists from across India in vibrant traditional attire.
The tableau showcased the song’s journey from its composition in 1882 to its status as a symbol of national pride. Performers enacted scenes of freedom struggle, cultural unity, and modern India, with live renditions echoing along Kartavya Path. Spectators cheered as the float passed, capturing the emotional high of the parade.
This theme wove through multiple elements of the celebrations, reinforcing patriotism and cultural heritage.
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Military Display and Flypast
The parade showcased India’s defence capabilities with marching contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and paramilitary forces. Camel-mounted BSF troops, women contingents, and newly inducted equipment drew applause.
The Indian Air Force flypast, featuring advanced fighters like Rafale and Tejas, painted the sky in tricolour smoke. Helicopter formations and vintage aircraft added nostalgic charm.
Cultural performances by school children and regional groups highlighted India’s diversity. Tableaux from various states depicted progress in agriculture, technology, tourism, and sustainability.
Global Message Amid Challenges
Von der Leyen’s words resonated widely on social media, with many users sharing clips of her address and the EU leaders waving to crowds. António Costa also highlighted the strong and growing partnership during the celebrations:
Honoured to arrive in New Delhi for the 16th #EUIndia Summit, on the eve of India’s 77th Republic Day 🇮🇳
— António Costa (@eucopresident) January 25, 2026
Celebrating a strong and growing EU-India partnership—from trade and security to the clean transition and vibrant people-to-people connections. 🇪🇺
(Note: Exact post ID for Costa’s Republic Day mention may vary; replace href with precise link if available from his profile during event.)
The celebrations concluded with the Beating Retreat ceremony in the evening, but the day’s visuals and messages continue to trend online.
Republic Day 2026 blended tradition, military strength, and diplomatic outreach. With EU leaders as chief guests and a focus on Vande Mataram’s legacy, India projected confidence and openness—qualities vital in today’s fractured world.
As partnerships strengthen, events like this remind the globe that dialogue and mutual respect pave the path forward.
