New Delhi: India is gearing up for its 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, and the excitement is palpable across the nation. The iconic parade will return to Kartavya Path in New Delhi, featuring grand military demonstrations, cultural tableaux, and civil contingents from all over the country. The event promises to be a spectacular showcase of India’s heritage, military prowess, and unity in diversity.
This year’s Republic Day is particularly special, as it coincides with a series of key national events, including the first-ever public Army Day Parade outside traditional cantonment settings. Preparations for the celebrations are already in full swing, with rehearsals underway at Kartavya Path and other designated venues.
Key Events and Schedule
77th Republic Day Parade – January 26, 2026:
The Republic Day parade is the centerpiece of national celebrations, featuring aerial fly-pasts, military drills, colourful state tableaux, and cultural performances. Spectators can witness the ceremonial display of India’s armed forces, showcasing the country’s modern defence capabilities and commitment to self-reliance under the banner of “Operation Sindoor.”
78th Army Day Parade – January 15, 2026 (Jaipur):
For the first time, the Army Day Parade will be held in a public, non-cantonment location, at Jaipur, Rajasthan. This event commemorates January 15, 1949, when General K M Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Army, succeeding the last British chief.
The Army Day Parade will highlight India’s major defence platforms, including T-90 tanks, BrahMos missiles, and M-777 howitzers, offering citizens a rare opportunity to witness modern military equipment in action.
Beating Retreat Ceremony – January 29, 2026 (Vijay Chowk, New Delhi):
The Beating Retreat marks the formal conclusion of the Republic Day celebrations, with military bands performing synchronized drills and ceremonial displays that reflect India’s rich cultural and military heritage.
Tickets and Booking Details
Tickets for all Republic Day events are on sale from January 5 to January 14, 2026, or until daily quotas are exhausted.
Republic Day Parade – January 26: ₹20 and ₹100
Full Dress Rehearsal / Beating Retreat – January 28: ₹20
Beating Retreat Ceremony – January 29: ₹100
Tickets can be booked online through the official Aamantran portal at aamantran.mod.gov.in or via the Aamantran mobile app, with sales opening daily at 9 am.
Offline tickets are available in Delhi at designated counters operating from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm, located at:
- Sena Bhawan
- Shastri Bhawan
- Jantar Mantar
- Parliament House Reception
- Rajiv Chowk Metro Station
- Kashmere Gate Metro Station
A valid original government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving Licence) is mandatory for ticket purchase and entry. The same ID must be presented on the event day.
What Spectators Can Look Forward To
The Republic Day parade is not just a display of military might—it is a celebration of India’s constitutional heritage and cultural diversity. Highlights this year include:
- Aerial Fly-Pasts: Precision formations by the Indian Air Force, showcasing cutting-edge aircraft.
- Military Drills: Live demonstrations of combat techniques, tactical exercises, and ceremonial drills by the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Cultural Tableaux: Vibrant floats representing each state and union territory, highlighting India’s rich history, festivals, arts, and traditions.
- Special Animal Contingent: For the first time, the Indian Army’s Remount & Veterinary Corps will display Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, trained dogs, and raptors, underscoring the role of animals in military operations.
- Civil Contingents: Students, youth organizations, and cultural groups performing coordinated marches and cultural programs, reflecting India’s unity in diversity.
Important Tips for Visitors
- Tickets are limited and sell out quickly, so early booking is highly recommended.
- Arrive well ahead of time to complete security checks.
- Carry the same photo ID used for booking.
- Last year, due to overwhelming demand, the Defence Ministry issued additional passes to encourage wider public participation—a trend expected to continue.
Looking Ahead
The 77th Republic Day promises to be a grand celebration of India’s democracy, military strength, and cultural richness, while the new public Army Day Parade in Jaipur adds an exciting dimension to the celebrations. As the nation gears up for these events, citizens and tourists alike are encouraged to plan ahead, book tickets early, and experience the grandeur of India’s national pride firsthand.
With preparations at full swing and the scale of displays expected to surpass previous years, Republic Day 2026 will offer a rare opportunity to witness India’s progress, heritage, and unity on a grand stage.
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