Republic Day 2026: On the eve of Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation. First, she paid tribute to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives to free India from colonial rule. She then praised the armed forces for their constant readiness to protect citizens. At the same time, she reflected on India’s democratic journey, constitutional values, and shared national responsibilities.

She urged citizens to stay united. She also called for inclusivity and resilience. Finally, she asked people to work together to build a prosperous, self-reliant, and forward-looking India.

Republic Day 2026: Celebrating 77 Years of the Republic

President Murmu congratulated citizens on the 77th Republic Day. She said, “We, the people of India, at home and overseas, are going to celebrate Republic Day with fervour. The auspicious occasion of Republic Day gives us an opportunity to reflect on the status and direction of our country in the past, present, and future.”

She recalled how India gained freedom on August 15, 1947. That moment allowed the nation to shape its own destiny. Later, the full adoption of the Constitution marked India’s birth as a democratic republic and ended foreign rule.

“Our Constitution is the foundational document of the largest republic in world history. The ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in our Constitution define our Republic…,” she said.

She added that the framers of the Constitution laid a strong foundation for nationalism and unity through its provisions.

Republic Day 2026: Vande Mataram and the Spirit of Nationalism

Next, the President highlighted the importance of Vande Mataram. She described it as the nation’s lyrical prayer. She recalled how poet Subramanya Bharati popularised it in Tamil as “Vande Mataram Yenbom,” which helped connect people with the spirit of patriotism.

Translations by Sri Aurobindo into other Indian languages and English further expanded its reach.

“Vande Mataram, composed by the venerable Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, is our lyrical national prayer," she said.

Republic Day 2026: Tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

President Murmu also spoke about Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. She noted that the nation recently paid tribute to him on his birth anniversary, observed as Parakram Diwas.

“Two days ago, on 23rd January, the nation paid its respectful tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary… Netaji’s slogan ‘Jai Hind’ is the declaration of our national pride…," she said.

She stressed that Netaji’s life and ideals continue to inspire the youth with courage and patriotism.

Rise of Nari-Shakti in Nation-Building

The President then turned to the growing role of women in India’s progress. She highlighted their contribution across agriculture, space, sports, self-employment, and the armed forces.

“They are actively contributing to the overall development of the country… Women are making their mark in every field, from agriculture to space, from self-employment to the armed forces," she said.

She pointed out that more than ten crore women linked to self-help groups are reshaping the development process.

Women Shine on the Global Stage

President Murmu praised Indian women for their achievements in sports. She cited success in cricket and chess as proof of their rising global stature.

“In the field of sports, our daughters have set new benchmarks globally… These examples are a testament to the dominance of India’s daughters in the world of sports," she said.

She added that the nation feels proud of their achievements.

Women Key to a Developed India

Finally, President Murmu stressed that women’s increasing participation will play a vital role in shaping a developed and inclusive India. She said their leadership and achievements will strengthen gender equality in a modern Republic.

She concluded by urging citizens to draw inspiration from these values and work together for the nation’s progress.