flag hoisting, and parades, they remember two different milestones in the country’s history While both days are marked with patriotic celebrations. India celebrates two major national days every year, Independence Day on August 15 and Republic Day on January 26.
This year, India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day. The day is observed to remember the freedom fighters and honour their sacrifices. On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and addresses the nation. The national anthem is also played during the ceremony.
The government announced that the national song will be sung when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the Red Fort, followed by the unfurling of the National Flag and his address to the nation. Republic Day also recognises the contributions of the republic to the nation and pays tribute to the services provided by the government in maintaining the country. The main attraction of Republic Day is the annual parade, which starts at Kartavya Path in Delhi and ends at India Gate. On this day, the President of India hoists the flag at Kartavya Path. The celebrations showcase India’s cultural and social heritage, along with parades and airshows by the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. On Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag and addresses the country from the Red Fort. A day before Independence Day, the President delivers a televised Address to the Nation. Helicopters of the Indian Air Force also shower flower petals over the Red Fort, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also delivers his Independence Day address.
Earlier reporting noted: The 2026 Independence Day celebrations will focus on ‘Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047’. This year also commemorates 150 years of Vande Mataram. It is followed by the unfurling of the tricolour, accompanied by the National Anthem and the 21-gun salute.
Earlier reporting noted: Every year, celebrations are observed across India, with state capitals, government offices, schools, and communities holding flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances. Earlier reporting noted: The official Independence Day programme begins with the presentation of a Guard of Honour by the Armed Forces and the Delhi Police to the Prime Minister of India.
