New Delhi: India celebrated its 77th Republic Day with great pride and grandeur on January 26, 2026, as the iconic Republic Day Parade unfolded on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The annual event stood as a powerful symbol of India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and national unity, drawing attention from millions across the country and the world.
This year’s parade was organized under the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, commemorating the historic song that played a vital role in India’s freedom movement. The celebrations included marching contingents of the armed forces and paramilitary forces, state and Union Territory tableaux, tableaux from central ministries, and captivating cultural performances, all showcased in a meticulously planned spectacle.
Parade Highlights: A Display of Strength, Culture, and Unity
The Republic Day Parade featured:
- Marching contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)
- Colorful tableaux representing India’s states, Union Territories, and central ministries
- Cultural performances and aerial displays
- Massive public participation both on-ground and online
The event was witnessed live by citizens across the nation, reaffirming the spirit of patriotism and unity.
How the Awards Were Decided
The awards for the parade were determined through a two-tier evaluation process:
- An expert committee under the Ministry of Defence assessed marching contingents and tableaux based on precision, coordination, creativity, and presentation
- A public voting process conducted via the MyGov portal, where citizens voted for their favorite tableaux and contingents under the “People’s Choice” category
Voting for the public poll remained open until 11:45 PM (IST) on January 26, 2026, while the official jury results were announced later.
Best Marching Contingents: Official Jury Results
According to the official announcement by the government, the winners in the marching contingent categories are:
- Best Marching Contingent among the Three Services: Indian Navy
- Best Marching Contingent among CAPF/Other Auxiliary Forces: Delhi Police
The Indian Navy was praised for its immaculate discipline and synchronized movements, while the Delhi Police impressed the jury with its professionalism and sharp presentation.
Best Tableaux Awards: States and Union Territories
The government also announced the top three tableaux from states and Union Territories:
- 1 – Maharashtra – “Ganeshotsav: Symbol of Self-Reliance”
- 2 – Jammu and Kashmir – “Handicrafts and Folk Dances of Jammu and Kashmir”
- 3 – Kerala – “Water Metro and 100% Digital Literacy: Self-Reliant Kerala for Self-Reliant India”
Maharashtra’s tableau emerged as the top prize winner, earning widespread appreciation for beautifully blending cultural tradition with the idea of self-reliance.
Best Tableau from Central Ministries and Departments
- Best Tableau (Central Ministries/Departments): Ministry of Culture – “Vande Mataram: The Call of a Nation’s Soul”
The tableau highlighted the emotional and historical significance of Vande Mataram in India’s freedom struggle.
Special Awards Announced
Two special recognitions were also awarded:
- Central Public Works Department (CPWD) – “Vande Mataram: 150th Anniversary Commemoration”
- ‘Vande Mataram: The Eternal Resonance of India’ Dance Group – for an outstanding cultural performance
People’s Choice Awards: Results of the MyGov Online Poll
The government encouraged citizens to vote for their favorite contingents and tableaux through an online survey on the MyGov portal. Based on public voting, the winners are:
Best Marching Contingents (People’s Choice)
- Three Services: Assam Regiment
- CAPF/Other Auxiliary Forces: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
Top Three Tableaux (States/Union Territories – People’s Choice)
- Gujarat – “Mantra of Swadeshi – Self-Reliance – Freedom: Vande Mataram”
- Uttar Pradesh – “Culture of Bundelkhand”
- Rajasthan – “Golden Touch of the Desert: Bikaner Gold Art (Usta Kala)”
Best Tableau (Central Ministries – People’s Choice)
- Department of School Education and Literacy – “National Education Policy 2020: Taking Indian School Education Forward on the Path of Developed India”
A Celebration Beyond Awards
Beyond trophies and rankings, the Republic Day Parade 2026 stood as a collective celebration of India’s heritage, progress, and democratic spirit. From soldiers marching with pride to tableaux narrating stories of tradition and innovation, the parade reflected the nation’s journey and aspirations.
