India’s 77th Republic Day was marked by moments that stirred pride, emotion and awe across the nation. From the grandeur of Kartavya Path in New Delhi to the charged atmosphere at the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar, the celebrations reflected the country’s cultural depth, military preparedness and unbreakable unity. Among the many powerful visuals, one scene stood out, four-legged soldiers marching with discipline and dignity during the Beating Retreat ceremony, earning admiration from spectators across the country.
#WATCH | Four-legged soldiers participate in the Beating Retreat ceremony at the Attari-Wagah border in Punjab's Amritsar, on the occasion of #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/DRu4r4aJoL
— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026
At the iconic Attari-Wagah border, the Beating Retreat ceremony took on a special significance this year. Alongside Indian troops, trained military dogs participated in the proceedings, symbolising loyalty, courage and silent service. Their presence highlighted the often-unseen role these animals play in safeguarding the nation, drawing applause and emotional reactions from onlookers as they marched with precision on the occasion of Republic Day.
The main Republic Day parade unfolded at Kartavya Path with ceremonial elegance and scale. President Droupadi Murmu arrived in a traditional horse-drawn buggy, accompanied by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who attended as chief guests. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior ministers, top military leadership and diplomats were present to witness the celebrations.
Under the theme “150 Years of Vande Mataram”, India presented a sweeping display of its defence capabilities and cultural diversity. The parade featured missiles, newly raised military units and advanced weaponry, including systems associated with Operation Sindoor. Colourful tableaux and disciplined marching contingents reflected both the nation’s heritage and its forward-looking vision.
One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the parade was the aerial flypast by the Indian Air Force, which brought the celebrations to a thunderous close. The sky above Kartavya Path came alive as 29 aircraft flew in precise formations, including 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters.
#WATCH | Delhi: The Indian Air Force presents fly-past during the 77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 Parade on Kartavya Path
— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026
(Visuals of Arjan Formation comprising one C-130 ac in lead with two C-295 ac in echelon in 'Vic' Formation.)
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/X2QGTfLriC
The flypast featured several signature formations. The Varuna formation included one P-8i maritime patrol aircraft flanked by two Su-30 fighter jets in a classic ‘Vic’ pattern. The Arjan formation showcased a C-130 transport aircraft leading two C-295 planes in echelon. Six Rafale fighter jets flew in the Vajraang formation, underlining India’s air dominance and technological strength.
VIDEO | Republic Day Parade 2026: A single Rafale fighter jet flying at a speed of 900 km per hour executes the breathtaking vertical manoeuvre over Kartavya Path. The aircraft is being flown by Group Captain Amit Gehany along with Flight Lieutenant Utkarsh Sharma of 17th… pic.twitter.com/NUFAzOnHAX
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 26, 2026
The Vijay formation emerged as the most dramatic highlight. A Rafale fighter jet roared across the skies at nearly 900 kmph, maintaining a low altitude over the water channel north of Rajpath before executing a sharp Vertical Charlie manoeuvre. The breathtaking display drew loud cheers from the audience and capped off the celebrations on a high note.
VIDEO | As the 77th Republic Day 2026 parade on Kartavya Path concluded, thousands of tricolour balloons were released into the sky, creating a breathtaking visual symbolising freedom, unity, and soaring national pride.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 26, 2026
(Source: Third Party)#RepublicDay🇮🇳
(Full video… pic.twitter.com/UsKICziQ1W
As the parade concluded, thousands of tricolour balloons were released into the sky, creating a powerful visual that symbolised freedom, unity and aspiration. From disciplined soldiers and soaring aircraft to four-legged heroes at the border, the 77th Republic Day celebrations captured the spirit of a nation proud of its past and confident about its future.
