India celebrates 77th Republic Day with historic 150th ‘Vande Mataram’ tribute

New Delh: India marked its 77th Republic Day on Monday with a sprawling display of military technology and cultural heritage at Kartavya Path, as President Droupadi Murmu presided over the national celebrations in the heart of the capital.

The ceremony featured an important diplomatic presence with dual Chief Guests from the European Union: European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Their attendance underscored the deepening strategic ties between New Delhi and Brussels.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who led the nation in its annual tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial before the parade, extended his greetings to the public.

"May this grand national festival, a symbol of India's honour, pride, and glory, infuse new energy and enthusiasm into your lives," the Prime Minister said in a statement.

The formal proceedings began at 10:30 a.m. following the arrival of the dignitaries at the saluting dais. In keeping with long-standing tradition, the national flag was unfurled, accompanied by the national anthem and a thunderous 21-gun salute.

The salute was executed using 105 mm light field guns, an indigenously developed artillery system that has replaced colonial-era weaponry as part of the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative. The honours were presented by the 1721 Ceremonial Battery of the 172 Field Regiment.

The 2026 parade also serves as a landmark commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the national song, "Vande Mataram," with cultural performances and tableaux dedicated to its legacy.