Republic Day Parade 2026 Highlights 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’ Through Rare Artwork

The 77th Republic Day Parade in New Delhi became a unique blend of history, art, and patriotism as India celebrated 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’. Rare artworks, cultural symbols, and military displays along Kartavya Path paid tribute to the iconic national song that inspired generations during the freedom movement and continues to unite the nation.

Why in News?

The Republic Day Parade 2026 showcased rare artwork illustrating ‘Vande Mataram’ to commemorate its sesquicentenary (150 years), making it the central theme of this year’s national celebrations.

‘Vande Mataram’ as the Central Theme of R-Day Parade

The sesquicentenary of ‘Vande Mataram’ dominated the visual and cultural narrative of the parade.

• Prints of historic paintings by artist Tejendra Kumar Mitra depicting the opening stanzas of the song adorned the enclosures along Kartavya Path.
• Invitation cards carried a special logo marking 150 years of the song, featuring a silhouette of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.
• The theme reflected how a literary composition evolved into a national symbol of unity and sacrifice.
• This artistic representation brought history alive for millions watching the parade.

Historical Significance of ‘Vande Mataram’

‘Vande Mataram’ holds a unique place in India’s freedom struggle and cultural identity.

• Written in 1875 by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.
• First published in the literary journal Bangadarshan.
• Later included in his novel Anandamath (1882).
• First sung publicly by Rabindranath Tagore at the 1896 Congress session in Calcutta.
• Adopted as India’s National Song in 1950 by the Constituent Assembly.
• Over time, it became a rallying cry during the freedom movement.

Republic Day Parade 2026: Cultural and Military Showcase

The parade showcased India’s heritage, progress, and military strength.

30 tableaux participated,

• 17 from States and Union Territories.
• 13 from Ministries and Services.

Broad themes included,

• “Swatantrata ka Mantra: Vande Mataram”
• “Samriddhi ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat”

The tableaux reflected India’s journey from colonial rule to a self-reliant and confident nation.

Performances and Nationwide Celebrations

• The celebrations extended beyond New Delhi.
• Military and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) bands performed across cities from January 19 to 26.
• All performances revolved around the theme ‘Vande Mataram’.
• These events reinforced national unity and patriotic spirit among citizens.
• The blend of music, art, and discipline added emotional depth to the celebrations.

International Presence and National Importance

India marked the occasion with global attention.

• Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and
• Antonio Costa, President of the European Council,
• were the Chief Guests, highlighting India’s growing global stature.

Question

Q. ‘Vande Mataram’ was adopted as India’s National Song in which year?

A) 1947
B) 1949
C) 1950
D) 1952