Bhubaneswar: Breaking with long-standing tradition, the Republic Day 2026 celebrations on Kartavya Path will feature parade galleries named after some of India’s most iconic rivers, paying tribute to their central role in the nation’s civilisation, culture and economy.
From the Ganga and Ghaghra in the north to the Godavari and Kaveri in the south, and the Brahmaputra in the northeast, the newly named galleries will symbolically reflect India’s flowing heritage. Officials said the theme underscores rivers as lifelines that have shaped India’s history, sustained livelihoods, and nurtured its cultural and spiritual traditions for centuries.
The celebrations will also witness large-scale cultural performances, with around 2,000 artists from across the country set to participate. Their performances will weave together regional traditions, folk arts and contemporary expressions, transforming the national parade into a vibrant homage to India’s diverse yet interconnected heritage.
By aligning the Republic Day festivities with the symbolism of rivers, the 2026 edition aims to highlight environmental consciousness, cultural unity and the enduring bond between India’s geography and its people, officials added.
-OdishaAge
