European Union Contingent To March At Republic Day As EU Leaders To Grace Parade As Chief Guests

Last Updated:January 23, 2026, 07:44 IST

European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa will join President Murmu and PM Narendra Modi at Republic Day 2026, themed on Vande Mataram.

India will celebrate the 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026. (Image: PTI file)

A European Union contingent will march in this year’s Republic Day Parade, marking a significant international presence at the national celebrations.

As part of the march past, four European Union flag bearers riding on two Gypsy vehicles will participate along the parade route. The contingent’s participation coincides with the visit of European Union leaders, who will grace the Republic Day Parade as the Chief Guests.

This year, top European Union leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, will attend the celebrations alongside President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Their presence underscores India’s expanding engagement with Europe across trade, technology, climate action, and geopolitical stability.

Republic Day Theme

This year’s Republic Day theme centres on “Vande Mataram," commemorating 150 years since the song’s composition. The theme seeks to reconnect citizens with India’s freedom struggle while highlighting the nation’s journey and progress over the decades.

Paintings inspired by 1920s interpretations of the song will line Kartavya Path, while schools, colleges, and cultural groups across India will perform music and dance from January 19 to 26.

The Vande Mataram theme is reflected across official invitations, floral decorations, and tableaux as well.

Parade

Republic Day 2026 will feature several firsts in the parade, with the Indian Army set to showcase a Battle Array Formation highlighting coordinated troop movements alongside tanks, missile systems, drones, and armoured vehicles.

The Indian Air Force flypast will feature fighter jets and helicopters in multiple formations, with a special tableau honoring Air Force veterans.

Officials are also considering changes to the event sequence to improve visibility and audience engagement.

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