chief guests for 77th Republic Day celebrations in 2026: Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and António Costa, President of the European Council
India celebrates Republic Day every year on 26 January to mark the adoption of the Constitution in 1950. The grand celebrations held at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, showcase India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and democratic values. One of the most significant highlights of the Republic Day parade is the presence of a Chief Guest, a distinguished international leader invited by the Government of India.
For Republic Day 2026, India has taken a historic diplomatic step by inviting top leadership from the European Union as chief guests, reflecting the growing strategic importance of India–EU relations.
Republic Day 2026 Chief Guest Name:
The chief guests for India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations in 2026 are:
- Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
- António Costa, President of the European Council
This marks the first time that leaders representing the European Union as an institution, rather than a single country, will attend India’s Republic Day parade as chief guests. Their joint presence underlines India’s evolving foreign policy approach and its emphasis on partnerships with global blocs.
Why Republic Day Chief Guests Matter
Inviting a chief guest for Republic Day is not merely ceremonial. It is a powerful diplomatic signal that highlights India’s international priorities and strategic partnerships. Over the decades, India has hosted presidents, prime ministers, monarchs, and global leaders from across continents, each invitation reflecting the geopolitical context of that time.
The selection of EU leaders for Republic Day 2026 indicates:
- Strengthening political and economic ties between India and the European Union
- Recognition of the EU as a key global partner
- India’s commitment to multilateral cooperation on global issues
Significance of Inviting European Union Leaders
The European Union is one of India’s largest trading partners and an important ally in areas such as technology, climate action, clean energy, and global security. By inviting both the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Council, India has emphasized its intent to deepen engagement at an institutional level.
This invitation also comes at a time when India and the EU are working toward expanding cooperation in trade, supply chains, digital innovation, and geopolitical stability. The presence of EU leaders at Republic Day 2026 sends a strong message of long-term partnership and mutual trust.
Role of the Chief Guest During Republic Day Celebrations
The chief guest plays a symbolic yet prominent role during Republic Day events. While the President of India hoists the national flag, the chief guest:
- Sits alongside India’s top leadership during the parade
- Witnesses the march-past by armed forces and cultural tableaux
- Attends official receptions and state banquets
- Engages in high-level diplomatic meetings
Although the chief guest does not perform any constitutional duties, their presence enhances the global stature of the event and reinforces diplomatic ties.
Republic Day Parade: A Global Showcase
The Republic Day parade is watched by millions worldwide and serves as a platform to showcase India’s unity in diversity. The participation of EU leaders in 2026 will attract global attention and further elevate the international profile of the celebrations.
It also reflects India’s position as a confident global player that values partnerships based on democracy, cooperation, and shared interests.
Conclusion
The selection of Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa as the chief guests for Republic Day 2026 is a landmark moment in India’s diplomatic history. It highlights the deepening relationship between India and the European Union and signals a future-oriented partnership focused on global cooperation.
As India celebrates its constitutional legacy on 26 January 2026, the presence of EU leadership at Kartavya Path will symbolize not only national pride but also India’s expanding role on the world stage.
