New Delhi, January 26, 2026: The Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path witnessed a spectacular display of India’s military prowess, indigenous defense capabilities, and cultural heritage, with a notable India-Europe collaboration marking the event.
The Indian Air Force’s flypast stood out this year, with fighter pilots forming a striking ‘Sindoor’ formation in the sky, dedicated to Operation Sindoor. The parade also featured a historic India-Europe partnership, as Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council, participated as chief guests. This marked the first time that two top European Union leaders jointly graced India’s Republic Day celebrations.
EU Military Contingent Joins Parade
A military contingent from the European Union, led by Colonel Frederik Simon Spruit, also took part in the parade. Von der Leyen and Costa are on an official visit to India with a high-level delegation and are scheduled to hold summit-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on trade, security, and strategic cooperation.
Global Recognition for India
Addressing the media after the parade, Ursula von der Leyen stated, “A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous, and secure. Participating in the Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path has been a lifetime honor for me, and the benefits of India’s progress extend to all of us.” She also shared on X (formerly Twitter), “Being the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations is a lifetime honor. A prosperous and stable India benefits the entire world.”
Kartavya Path Parade Highlights India’s Strength
President Draupadi Murmu unfurled the national flag to officially commence the grand parade, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior cabinet ministers, top military officials, foreign diplomats, and other dignitaries. The parade showcased India’s defense capabilities, cultural diversity, and technological achievements.
Tradition of Chief Guests
India traditionally invites foreign leaders as chief guests for its Republic Day celebrations. Last year, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest, while in 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron and in 2023, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi participated. No chief guests were invited in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent years, notable attendees have included former US President Barack Obama, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and leaders from all 10 ASEAN countries.
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