Republic Day 2026: PM Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ message, EU leaders as chief guests — all you need to know

“Best wishes on Republic Day,” Modi wrote on X

“May this occasion add renewed energy and enthusiasm in our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat,” he said.

The main Republic Day celebrations will be held at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, with President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the ceremonial proceedings.

This year, Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, are attending the event as chief guests.

The Republic Day Parade will pay tribute to Indian rivers and river guardians. According to a government statement, a total of 163 special guests, comprising water warriors from across the country, will attend the parade as invitees of the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation (DoWR, RD & GR).

The group includes 28 participants from Uttarakhand, 10 from Jharkhand, 40 from Bihar and 85 from Uttar Pradesh.

Highlighting the timeless Buddhist values of social harmony, peace, compassion and mutual coexistence, a large group of international monks and nuns representing 40 countries and attending the Global Buddhist Summit will also be honoured guests at this year’s Republic Day Parade.

Why India celebrates Republic Day

Although India attained Independence on August 15, 1947, it became a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic nation with the adoption of its Constitution on January 26, 1950.

The historic moment was marked by a 21-gun salute and the unfurling of the Indian National Flag by Dr Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President. January 26 was thereafter declared a national holiday and is celebrated annually as Republic Day.