New Delhi, January 19: As India prepares for the annual celebrations at Kartavya Path on January 26, 2026, a common point of confusion has resurfaced: whether the nation is marking its 77th or 78th Republic Day. While 76 years have passed since the Constitution was adopted, official records confirm that 2026 marks the 77th Republic Day celebration.

The distinction lies in the difference between "years completed" and the "number of celebrations held." India officially became a sovereign democratic republic on January 26, 1950. Because that inaugural day was celebrated as the "1st Republic Day," the count stays one ahead of the number of years that have elapsed. Is It 76th or 77th Republic Day of India on 26th January 2026?.

By this logic:

  • 1950: 1st Republic Day

  • 2000: 51st Republic Day (50 years completed)

  • 2026: 77th Republic Day (76 years completed)

This numbering system follows the same precedent used for Independence Day, where the date of the actual event (August 15, 1947) is counted as the first instance.

2026 Theme: "150 Years of Vande Mataram"

The 2026 celebrations hold additional historical weight as they commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song, Vande Mataram. Under the broader themes of "Svatantra ka Mantra – Vande Mataram" and "Samriddhi ka Mantra – Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India), the parade will blend traditional patriotism with modern military achievements. India Republic Day 2026 Ticket Details.

To honor the national song, the Ministry of Defence announced that 1923 paintings by artist Tejendra Kumar Mitra, which illustrate the verses of Vande Mataram, will be displayed as "view-cutters" along the parade route.

Strategic Diplomacy: European Leaders as Chief Guests

In a move signaling India’s strengthening ties with the West, the government has invited two prominent European leaders as Chief Guests for 2026. António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, will witness the festivities.

Their visit is timed alongside the 16th India-EU Summit, scheduled for January 27, where discussions are expected to focus on a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and cooperation in green technology.

Firsts at the 2026 Parade

The Indian Army is set to debut a "Phased Battle Array" format at Kartavya Path, providing spectators with a clearer look at how different military formations—such as the T-90 tanks and BrahMos missile systems—operate in tandem.

Other notable features include:

  • 30 Tableaux: 17 from States/UTs and 13 from various Ministries, showcasing cultural heritage and innovation.

  • All-Women Contingents: Continuing the tradition of highlighting "Nari Shakti" (Women Power) in the armed forces.

  • Special Guests: Approximately 10,000 citizens from various walks of life, including farmers, artisans, and beneficiaries of government schemes, have been invited to sit in prominent enclosures.

The celebrations will conclude with the traditional "Beating the Retreat" ceremony on January 29, featuring bands from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 19, 2026 03:34 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).