New Delhi, January 19, 2026: Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani, renowned for his work in Indian cinema including the global hit Naatu Naatu, has been entrusted with composing the music for the Republic Day Parade 2026. Keeravani expressed his deep gratitude and sense of honour on being chosen for this prestigious national event.

Taking to X, the composer wrote, “Dear all, Vande Mataram! On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the iconic song Vande Mataram, I feel deeply honoured and privileged to have composed the music for the 26th January Republic Day Parade, under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture. This grand presentation will be performed by 2,500 artists from across India. Stay tuned as we come together to celebrate the spirit of our nation — Vande Mataram!”

The 77th Republic Day parade, scheduled for January 26, 2026, marks the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram. The Ministry of Culture has coordinated a grand performance that will feature 2,500 artists from across India, showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity and patriotic fervour through music and choreography. Keeravani’s composition is expected to be a highlight of the celebrations, blending traditional Indian musical elements with contemporary orchestration befitting the grandeur of the occasion.

Rehearsals and Preparations

Preparations for the Republic Day Parade are already in full swing at Kartavya Path, with rehearsals involving marching contingents, cultural performances, and music presentations. Organisers have emphasised the importance of synchronisation, as 2,500 performers will be part of the musical segments, ensuring that the grandeur of the parade is matched by precision and spectacle.

The parade will feature a mix of military displays, cultural tableaux, and patriotic performances, culminating in the music segment composed by MM Keeravani. The composer’s involvement adds a special dimension to the celebrations, as his global recognition brings international attention to India’s Republic Day festivities.

Distinguished Guests

The 77th Republic Day celebrations will host European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as chief guests. Their presence highlights the growing importance of India-EU relations and the celebration’s international visibility.

Following the Republic Day event, the two European dignitaries are scheduled to attend the 16th EU-India Summit on January 27 in New Delhi. During the summit, they will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen strategic ties between India and the European Union, with discussions covering trade, security, defence, clean transition, and people-to-people cooperation. The presence of Keeravani’s performance at the parade will serve as a symbolic showcase of India’s cultural diplomacy during this period of heightened international engagement.

Celebrating Vande Mataram

The 2026 Republic Day celebrations carry added significance, as they coincide with the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. Originally composed in the late 19th century, the song has long been regarded as a symbol of India’s struggle for independence and national pride. By incorporating it into the musical narrative of the parade, organisers aim to evoke patriotic sentiment while highlighting India’s cultural heritage.

MM Keeravani’s composition will reportedly blend classical Indian instruments with modern orchestration to convey the song’s historical resonance while appealing to contemporary audiences. The performance is expected to be both visually and aurally spectacular, underscoring the grandeur of India’s Republic Day celebrations and the nation’s achievements since independence.

Significance of MM Keeravani’s Role

Keeravani, an acclaimed composer known for his ability to fuse traditional Indian music with cinematic innovation, brings a unique sensibility to the Republic Day celebrations. He is celebrated globally for his work on Baahubali and RRR, particularly the Oscar-winning track Naatu Naatu, which has gained international recognition for its energy, rhythm, and Indian cultural flavour.

By composing music for the Republic Day Parade, Keeravani not only honours India’s national heritage but also presents an opportunity to showcase Indian music on a global stage, coinciding with the presence of international dignitaries. The collaboration of 2,500 performers with his composition underscores India’s emphasis on both scale and artistic excellence during national celebrations.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming Republic Day Parade is expected to be a landmark celebration, combining military precision, cultural grandeur, and a tribute to India’s historic and contemporary achievements. MM Keeravani’s involvement marks a milestone in the event’s musical programming, ensuring that the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram receives a fittingly grand and memorable tribute.

As India prepares to celebrate its Republic Day amid a global audience, the synergy of music, performance, and national pride will reflect the country’s cultural depth, creative excellence, and unity. The performance promises to leave a lasting impression, both for the millions attending in New Delhi and for those watching across the country and around the world.

The 77th Republic Day celebrations, featuring MM Keeravani’s musical composition, are set to reaffirm India’s commitment to tradition, innovation, and global engagement, making January 26, 2026, a truly historic and memorable day in the country’s journey.