Mumbai, January 23: India is set to celebrate its 77th Republic Day on Monday, January 26, with a grand parade (Republic Day Parade) displaying military prowess and cultural heritage at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. This year's celebrations are anchored by the theme "150 Years of Vande Mataram", commemorating the sesquicentennial of the national song.

In a significant diplomatic gesture, the event will host dual Chief Guests: António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Wondering where and how to watch the Republic Day parade? Scroll below to check the India Republic Day Parade 2026 live streaming details. Republic Day Parade 2026: S-400 Air Defence System To Feature for First Time in Department of Military Affairs Tableau.

When and Where to Watch Live Telecast of Republic Day Parade 2026

For millions of viewers across the globe, the parade will be accessible through multiple digital and broadcast platforms. The official proceedings are scheduled to begin at 9:30 AM IST.

Television: The parade will be broadcast live in high definition on all Doordarshan (DD) channels. Most private news networks will also provide live coverage.

Online Streaming: Viewers can watch the high-quality live stream on the Doordarshan National YouTube channel and the Prasar Bharati mobile app.

Official Portals: The Ministry of Defence often provides a live link on the Aamantran portal and the MyGov website.

Radio: All India Radio (AIR) will provide live commentary for those preferring audio-only coverage.

What's New in the 2026 Republic Day Parade?

The 2026 edition introduces several "firsts" aimed at modernising the spectacle and honouring recent military achievements:

Phased Battle Array: Moving away from traditional marching, the Indian Army will debut a "Battle Array" format, showcasing assets like T-90 tanks and the Bhairav Battalion in sequences that mirror actual operational logic—Surveillance, Mobilisation, and Strike.

Operation Sindoor Tribute: The Indian Air Force flypast will feature a new "Sindoor" formation, paying homage to the air strikes conducted following the 2025 Pahalgam incident.

Animal Contingent: For the first time, a specialised animal unit from the Remount & Veterinary Corps will participate, featuring Bactrian (double-humped) camels and Zanskar ponies.

Musical Refresh: Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani has created a fresh musical rendition of Vande Mataram specifically for this year's ceremony. Republic Day 2026: Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar To Unfurl National Flag With President Droupadi Murmu at 77th Republic Day Parade in Delhi.

Shift to "People-First" Celebrations

The government has introduced a "Jan Bhagidari" (People's Participation) approach to eliminate "VVIP culture". In a symbolic shift, seating enclosures at Kartavya Path have been renamed after major Indian rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, and Narmada, rather than using numbers. Around 10,000 Special Guests - including farmers, artisans, and frontline workers - have been invited to occupy prime seating areas traditionally reserved for officials.

Travel and Attendance Logistics

For those attending in person, the Delhi Metro will start services as early as 3:00 AM on January 26. While ticket sales have already concluded on the official Aamantran portal, those with valid tickets are advised to carry a government-issued photo ID and reach their designated enclosure by 7:00 AM to clear multi-layered security checks.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 23, 2026 07:09 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).