India’s 76th Republic Day 2025 LIVE Updates: From wooden toys to Maha Kumbh – state tableaux highlight schemes, heritage at Republic Day parade

At the banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday evening, visiting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto said, “I have Indian DNA.” Flanked by PM Narendra Modi and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar at the high table, the visiting President dwelt at length on the ancient civilisation ties between the two countries, adding that he would like to see “Indonesia and India continuing to be close partners and friends.”

“I would like to report to the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister… that a few weeks ago, I had my genetic sequencing test and my DNA test, and they tell me I have Indian DNA. And everybody knows when I hear Indian music, I start dancing.. it must be part of my make-up,” the President can be heard saying, in a video shared by the President’s office on Sunday morning.

Subianto also spoke about how he wanted to learn from India in terms of its poverty alleviation drive. “I am not a professional politician, not a good diplomat. I say what’s in my heart. I (have) come here (for a) few days but I learnt a lot… from PM Modi’s leadership, programme and your commitment to alleviate poverty, to help the marginalised and the weakest part of your society is an inspiration for us.” Read More

India’s 76th Republic Day was marked on Sunday, with the annual parade in New Delhi showcasing various states’ cultural diversity through tableaux and dances, along with the country’s military prowess.

As happens every year, the parade was attended by the President, the Prime Minister, the Defence Minister and senior members of the government. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest. Read more to know four notable moments

UNDERLINING THE importance of “freedom of navigation and overflight” in the Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the visiting President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto “agreed to an early establishment of bilateral maritime dialogue and cyber security dialogue”, according to a joint statement issued Sunday.

Subianto, the Chief Guest at the Republic Day parade, was hosted by President Droupadi Murmu later in the day for the At Home function at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

As the two countries had adopted the “Shared Vision of India-Indonesia on Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific” in 2018, they agreed to hold the next Defence Ministers’ Dialogue at an early date. Read More

Between the Air Force’s fly-past, military and police contingents, arms and ammunition developed by our scientists, colourful tableaux of various states, and dances performances by students and folk dancers — the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path this year promises to be yet another dazzling affair.

This year marks 75 years since our Constitution, which was adopted on November 26, 1949, came into effect on January 26, 1950.

Advertisement

Seventy-five years ago, on January 26, 1950, the nation’s first Republic Day parade was held in the afternoon at New Delhi’s Irwin Stadium (christened National Stadium in 1951 and renamed Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in 2002). Even as that first parade marked India’s transition to a democratic republic and celebrated the adoption of the Constitution, quiet but important changes were brewing since that morning. Read More

Sunday marked India’s 76th Republic Day that also coincided with the platinum jubilee of the enactment of the country’s Constitution. President Droupadi Murmu led the celebrations with a grand parade at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto was present as the chief guest. The ceremony started with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. Thereafter, the PM and other dignitaries headed towards the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.

Read More

President Droupadi Murmu led the nation in celebrating India’s 76th Republic Day with a grand parade at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi. Indonesia’s President, Prabowo Subianto, was the Chief Guest. The ceremony started with Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the National War Memorial to pay tributes to soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. Thereafter, the PM and other dignitaries headed towards the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.

What is the history of the National War Memorial? Did India have a monument to commemorate fallen soldiers before this? Read More

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a post on X said, “It was truly a memorable morning at Kartavya Path. Here are more glimpses…"

For the world’s largest democracy, the celebrations and commemorations of 75 years of being a republic are a reminder of what lies alongside, and that which endures. While elections are a democracy’s way of renewing itself every five years, Republic Day is a reminder of the constitutional pact that mirrors and forms the constant common ground. It is the space that is not defined by the winners, nor can it be overturned by them. It is the shared commitment to the values and rules of the game that hold out the possibility of today’s losers becoming tomorrow’s winners.

Despite the unabashed conceits of those who win the election and seek to conquer all — look at how the newly elected leader of the world’s most powerful democracy issues order after order in the manner of a Pakistan General’s attempts to erase and remake everything in his image — in spite of the sometimes overwhelming pessimism of those who lose, and notwithstanding the cynicism of voters who think all is lost, January 26 comes every year as a countervailing idea and a restorative message. Read More

From the Pralay missile to a tri-services tableau, the 76th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path on Sunday featured many firsts. Here is a glimpse:

(PTI)

On India’s 76th Republic Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again transformed a national ceremonial occasion into a stunning visual narrative of India’s rich cultural heritage with his attire. 

The Prime Minister wore a red and yellow Bandhej ‘safa’ (turban), its vibrant hues complemented by its long, elegantly draping tail.

The outfit was anchored by a crisp white kurta-pyjama, providing a clean, classic foundation. Completing the look was a brown bandh gala jacket with a tailored silhouette and a vibrant pocket square that added a touch of lively contrast.

The choice of a Bandhani-style safa is particularly meaningful. Bandhani, a tie-dye technique popular in Gujarat and Rajasthan, involves intricate hand-plucking of fabric to create complex patterns. Read More

On an Air India flight from Delhi to Mumbai last week, I heard an announcement that puzzled me because it was so out of place. I cannot remember the exact words, but the gist was that the Indian Constitution was born on January 26, 1950, and that it was after this that Indians were guaranteed democracy and fundamental rights. Why did we need to be told this on a flight? What kind of absurdity was this? When I asked myself these questions, I realised that I had come upon yet another example of the neo-nationalism that has sadly come to define India now.

Here, let me confess that I have a distaste for those who feel the need to wear their nationalism or patriotism as badges of honour. Too many people do these days, and I have not met one who was not a big fat bore.

For a while now, I have been meaning to discuss in this space the difference between real patriotism and pseudo-nationalism. Since this column appears today on India’s 75th Republic Day, I believe the time is right for such a conversation.

Read Tavleen Singh's opinion piece here

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on Sunday said it had launched a digital knowledge repository, "Dharohar - Milestones in the Indian securities market", on the occasion of the country's 76th Republic Day.

The securities market, known for its diverse products, participants, and institutions, has a long-standing history of organised trading over the past 150 years, Sebi said.

"Dharohar has been designed to document and showcase this rich heritage and evolution of the Indian securities market," the regulator said in a statement, as quoted by news agency PTI.

The repository features a website that also includes an interactive timeline of significant events and 3D galleries, offering an engaging experience to visitors, it added. It is designed to cater to a wide audience, including students, investors, researchers, journalists, market participants, and the general public offering insights into the market's diverse products, participants, and institutions.

(With inputs from PTI)

Showcasing the military prowess, indigenously developed short-range tactical missile Pralay was displayed for the first time at the Republic Day parade held today. The missile with the capability of carrying a nuclear warhead was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is a short-range surface-to-surface missile with a payload capacity of 500-1,000 kg. It has a range of 150 to 500 kms.

Apart from Pralay, several other indigenously built missiles, surveillance systems and weapon systems were displayed at Kartavya Path on the occasion of 76th Republic Day.

Among the key highlights of the Republic Day parade held at Kartavya Path was the stunts by a group of soldiers known as "dare devils". Atop motorcycles, the soldiers left the viewers and guests in awe. The Motorcycle Rider Display Team of the Army's Corps of Signals, during their stunt, attempted to set two world records in the process.

Captain Dimple Singh Bhati, led the fighter formation and set a World Record by becoming the first woman officer of the Indian Army to present a salute to President Droupadi Murmu on a 12-foot ladder mounted on a moving motorcycle.

With remarkable balance and poise, Bhati presented a sharp and graceful salute to the President, embodying the courage, precision and excellence of the Corps.

The daredevils displayed a Three Peak Devil Formation by Naik Jayakumar, Naik SP Mangu and Signalman Sanket making a world record for the longest assisted handstand on Kartavya Path.

They began their performance with the riders performing an Opening Salute with Bullet Wheelie. The Corps of Signals' Dare Devils team was led by Captain Ashish Rana, who presented a crisp and smart salute to the President.

The riders performed the Shatrujeet Formation led by Naik Sumit Kumar Yadav and seven other daredevils, depicting the soldiers' valour and excellence.

The Mercury's Peak Formation was performed by Havildar Pramod Patil, Havildar Sangram Keshari Jena and 12 other daredevils.

With PTI inputs

Among the tableaux at Republic Day parade, the Andhra Pradesh tableau stole the show as it showcased eco-friendly wooden toys. Known as Etikoppaka Bommalu, the exquisite wooden toys are rooted in a 400-year-old tradition of craftsmanship.

Originally from Etikoppaka village in Andhra Pradesh, the toys are known for their smooth contours and vibrant colours. The toys often depict mythological figures, animals and shapes, and figurines found in ancient civilisations like Mohenjo Daro and Harappa, as per a government statement.

According to the government, the craft relies on the Ankudu tree whose soft wood is perfect for carving.

With PTI inputs

The Republic Day parade showcasing the strength, cultural diversity and military prowess of the country has concluded at Kartavya Path. Meanwhile, grand celebrations are going on in different parts of the country on the 76th Republic Day.

Showcasing India’s cultural diversity, tableaux from 16 states, Union Territories, and Central Government departments are participating in the Republic Day parade. The theme of Andhra Pradesh’s tableau is ‘Etikoppaka Bommalu,’ featuring eco-friendly wooden toys. While Uttar Pradesh displayed its Maha Kumbh tableau, West Bengal showcased its “Lakshmir Bhandar” and “Lok Prasar Prakalpa” tableau, highlighting the state government’s welfare schemes.

Tableaux of 16 states and Union Territories and 10 Ministries and departments of the Union Government are being showcased at the Republic Day parade. The broad theme of the tableaux is ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas’.

Here's the theme of each state's tableau

Goa - Cultural heritage of Goa

Uttarakhand: Cultural heritage and adventure sports

Haryana- Showcases Bhagwad Gita

Jharkhand: 'Swarnim Jharkhand'- A Legacy of Heritage and Progress

Gujarat: Swarnim Bharat- Virasat Aur Vikas

Andhra Pradesh : Etikoppaka Bommalu- Eco-Friendly Wooden Toys

Punjab: Punjab as the land of knowledge and wisdom

Uttar Pradesh : Mahakumbh 2025 - Swarnim Bharat Virasat aur Vikas

Bihar: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas (Nalanda Vishwavidyalya)

Madhya Pradesh : Kuno National park- The land of Cheetahs

Andhra Pradesh : Etikoppaka Bommalu- Eco-friendly wooden toys

Tripura: Eternal reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura - Kharchi Puja

Karnataka: Lakkundi- Cradle of Stone craft

West Bengal: The ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ and ‘Lok Prasar Prakalpa’ - Empowering lives and fostering self-reliance in Bengal

Chandigarh: A harmonious blend of heritage, innovation and sustainability

Delhi: Quality Education

Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu : Daman Aviary Bird Park along with Kukri Memorial- a tribute to the valiant sailors of the Indian Navy

Showcasing the nation's pride, cultural diversity and military prowess, Republic Day parade is ongoing at Kartavya Path.

Wondering where to watch the parade online ? Look no further!

Tune in here

Air Force band, 3 MiG-29, and IAF marching contingent marches past Kartavya Path.

Watch video

The Republic Day parade showcases the military prowess of the country with several contingents marching in unison and discipline. Catch a glimpse of the ongoing parade at Kartavya Path here

The Republic Day parade is ongoing at Kartavya Path and President Droupadi Murmu salutes as the Indian Army's contingent passes by.

Before that, Parade Commander Lt gen Bhavneesh Kumar arrived at Kartavya Path.

Republic Day parade has begun at Kartavya Path. PM Modi, President Murmu, Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto are in attendance.

Ahead of Republic Day parade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted President Droupadi Murmu and Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto at Kartavya Path. The parade will begin shortly.

Ahead of Republic Day parade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute at National War Memorial.

Watch video

The Gujarat tableau will feature the 'Kirti Toran', a symbol of Gujarat’s cultural heritage from the 12th century, alongside the ‘Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue at 182 meters. There will be tableaux from West Bengal, Goa, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Tripura, Karnataka, Chandigarh, and Delhi. For the first time, a Tri-services tableau will also roll down on Kartavya Path, “displaying the spirit of jointness and integration” and a “Joint Operations Room facilitating networking and communication among the three Services”, according to an official statement.

Scroll down to read what West Bengal tableau will showcase as theme.

Showcasing the cultural diversity, there will be sixteen tableaux from across states and Union Territories and 15 from central ministries, departments, and organisations.

West Bengal’s tableau will showcase “Lakshmir Bhandar” and “Lok Prasar Prakalpa” as themes, in a bid to highlight the “empowerment and self-reliance” in Bengal. Both are two of the Trinamool Congress government’s well-known schemes, with Lakshmir Bhandar providing financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections and the Lok Prasar Prakalpa paying registered folk artistes between 18 and 60 years Rs 1,000 monthly and a pension of equal amount to those above 60 years.

The Republic Day parade will feature a 352-member marching and band contingent from Indonesia. The theme for this year’s tableaux is “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas”. Sixteen tableaux from across states and Union Territories and 15 from central ministries, departments, and organisations will be a part of the parade.

The Republic Day parade will be led by Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second-generation officer. Major General Sumit Mehta, Chief of Staff, HQ Delhi Area will be the Parade Second-in-Command, as per the Press Information Bureau.

The winners of the highest gallantry awards will follow them and will include Param Vir Chakra winners Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) & Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), and Ashok Chakra winner Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd). The Param Vir Chakra is a coveted award for an act of immense bravery while the Ashok Chakra is bestowed for act of valour and self-sacrifice, when confronted with an enemy.