Sun Jan 25 17:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: India Prepares for 77th Republic Day Amidst Celebrations and Showcases
The Story:
New Delhi is gearing up for the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, with extensive rehearsals held at Kartavya Path. Despite inclement weather delaying some segments, nearly 2,500 artistes participated in a full dress rehearsal showcasing diverse Indian dance forms. A flypast rehearsal also took place, featuring 29 aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters. The parade’s main theme is ‘150 years of Vande Mataram,’ and it aims to represent both freedom and prosperity.
Key Points:
* The 77th Republic Day parade is scheduled for January 26, 2026.
* Rehearsals were held on January 23rd and 24th, 2026 at Kartavya Path in New Delhi.
* Nearly 2,500 artistes are set to perform, showcasing different dance forms of India.
* The flypast will include 29 aircraft: 16 fighter jets, 4 transport aircraft, and 9 helicopters.
* The parade’s theme is ‘150 years of Vande Mataram,’ with the broader themes of ‘Swatantra Ka Mantra – Vande Mataram’ and ‘Samriddhi Ka Mantra – Viksit Bharat’.
* Notable figures involved in the program’s creative team include M.M. Keeravani, Subhash Sehgal, Anupam Kher, and Santosh Nair.
* The European Union military staff were present during the full dress rehearsal.
* The parade is expected to last around 90 minutes.
Key Takeaways:
- The Republic Day celebration is a major national event showcasing India’s cultural diversity and military strength.
- The theme highlights India’s historical milestones and aspirations for a developed future (“Viksit Bharat”).
- Despite weather challenges, preparations are in full swing to ensure a grand celebration.
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