As India is gearing up for 77th Republic Day celebrations, a major highlight will be IAF featuring a veterans tableau at the parade honoring the airmen who defended India’s skies and contributed to ‘Rashtranirma’
India is gearing up for the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026 at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. The preparations are in full swing as the event blends along patriotism, cultural heritage, and modern military strength with active public participation.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is featuring a Veterans Tableau at the Republic Day parade, honouring the airmen who defended India’s skies and contributed to nation-building, or ‘Rashtranirma.’
This tableau depicts the legacy of IAF veterans, their wartime valour in safeguarding the airspace during critical conflicts and their roles post-retirement.
IAF Tableau to honor veterans this year. pic.twitter.com/D2KF8atT18
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 22, 2026
This aligns with this year’s overarching theme of 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram,’ and blending military tribute with cultural pride. This theme will run across every aspect of celebrations – from parade tableau and cultural performances to decorations and national outreach programs.
The Indian Air Force will fly the ‘Sindoor’ formation at the parade, in which the fighter aircraft that took part in the Operation Sindoor would be flying. The formation would include two each of Rafales, Su-30s, and MiG-29s, along with a single Jaguar fighter.
Indian Air Force to fly the ‘Sindoor’ formation at the Republic Day parade, in which the fighter aircraft that took part in the Operation Sindoor would be flying. The formation would include two each of Rafales, Su-30s, and MiG-29s, along with a single Jaguar fighter. pic.twitter.com/rclyYyoiTw
— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2026
The Chief Guests at the Republic Day Parade 2026 will be António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. Their participation highlights India’s expanding global partnerships and strong diplomatic engagement with Europe.
The event will begin at 9:30 AM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay a wreath at the National War Memorial. The main parade at Kartavya Path will commence at 10:30 AM and run for about 90 minutes.
A major highlight of Republic Day Celebrations 2026 will be the Indian Army’s Battle Array Formation, which will be showcased for the first time.
Military assets will move in a realistic combat sequence — beginning with reconnaissance units, followed by logistics support and troops in full battle gear.
As many as 30 tableaux from States, Union Territories, Ministries and Departments will roll down Kartavya Path, showcasing India’s cultural diversity, innovation and self-reliance
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