PM Modi lays wreath at war memorial as India marks 77th Republic Day

New Delhi, Jan 26: The prime minister arrived at the memorial in the morning, where he laid a wreath and observed a moment of silence to honour the fallen. The ceremony is a traditional start to Republic Day proceedings and precedes the main celebrations in the capital.

The focus later in the day shifts to Kartavya Path, where the grand Republic Day parade is scheduled to begin at 10.30am. The theme for this year’s celebrations is “150 years of Vande Mataram”, with the parade set to showcase India’s development journey, cultural diversity and military capabilities.

An elaborate defence display, cultural performances and vibrant tableaux by states and central ministries form the core of the parade. Chief guests from the European Council are also expected to attend the celebrations, adding a diplomatic highlight to the event.

India observes Republic Day every year on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution, which came into force on this day in 1950, formally establishing the country as a republic.