Get ready for an unforgettable Republic Day 2026 as India pays homage to 150 glorious years of ‘Vande Mataram.’ Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay amid the 1876 Bengal famine, this anthem became the battle cry of India’s independence movement, rallying millions against British tyranny.
Official announcements reveal a revamped national parade with ‘Vande Mataram’ as the central theme. Rajpath will transform into a canvas of history, with 29 state floats depicting the song’s journey—from its literary origins to its adoption during freedom marches and post-independence reverence.
Highlights include a massive choral performance by 10,000 voices, drone shows forming the tricolor and musical notes over the Red Fort, and AR experiences allowing virtual participation nationwide. The President will confer special awards to custodians of the anthem’s tradition, from musicians to historians.
Beyond Delhi, pan-India initiatives feature light-and-sound spectacles at freedom struggle sites, youth carnivals blending the song with hip-hop and EDM, and a commemorative coin release. This celebration isn’t just ceremonial; it’s a cultural renaissance, reminding a young nation of its unbreakable roots while propelling it toward a visionary future.