As India gears up to mark the 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, the country is thronging with festivities lined up to become one of a kind with a parade that will be unmatched compared with that of any other. Whether you want to face the relentless pace of the Delhi cold at Kartavya Path or just enjoy the luxury of your comfy living room, the 2026 events celebrating the 150th anniversary of the legendary “Vande Mataram” are available for all citizens.
Here is how to arrange the timings, tickets and live streaming of India’s largest national festival in years.
When and Where: Schedule
The main event is on Monday, January 26, 2026.
- Venue: Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) of New Delhi.
- Gates Open at 7:00 AM (Early shows are strongly advised because of multi-tier security).
- Parade starts: formal start time is 9:30 AM, the President of India unfurls the National Flag.
- Live Coverage Begins: National broadcasters usually kick off pre-show commentary around 9 a.m.
Where to Watch Online (no tickets):
You don’t need to be in the capital to watch the formations of the “Battle Array” or the flypast. The government ensures comprehensive digital coverage.
- Doordarshan (DD News): The standard gold standard of Republic Day coverage. Live on the DD National YouTube channel.
- PIB (Press Information Bureau): Most live feeds are provided on the PIB India YouTube channel and their ‘official’ X (formerly Twitter) handle.
- All India Radio (AIR): If you’re on the go, AIR’s YouTube channel and the “NewsonAir” app offer a live audio and video commentary.
- National Portals: All Rashtraparv and MyGov sites host a section of dedicated streaming players for a lag-free experience.
Ticket Info: How to Attend in Person
If you want to experience the vibration of the tanks and the noise of the Rafale jets up close, you’ll need an e-ticket or even an invitation.
Online: Tickets are sold in the official Aamantran portal (www.aamantran.mod.gov.in).
Pricing:
- ₹100 for Reserved Seats.
- ₹20 for Unreserved Seats.
Offline Counters: While digital is preferred, traditional counters are usually set up at places like Sena Bhawan, Jantar Mantar, and select Metro Stations, such as Rajiv Chowk, Kashmere Gate. This continues until the daily quota has been run out.
Required ID: A valid government ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID) is needed for both booking and entry.
Special 2026 Highlights to Expect
- Chief Guests: For a historic first, two EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa will represent the joint Chief Guests.
- Theme: Seize the "Vande Mataram" influence in the 30 rolling tableaux and the 2,500 cultural performers.
- Innovative Displays: For the first time, the Army will present a Battle Array Formation, simulating real combat situations instead of what is normally called marching.
