A Grand Glimpse of ‘Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat’ to Mark Republic Day Celebrations

For the first time, Republic Day celebrations in Uttar Pradesh will witness a confluence of cultures from nine states

Departmental tableaux to showcase UP’s development journey; parade by armed and paramilitary forces and UP Police to be held

Prominent personalities from Uttar Pradesh to be honoured with Padma Awards on Republic Day

Lucknow, January 2026 : A grand and historic Republic Day celebration is being organised this year in Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Lucknow. Along with showcasing the state’s rich cultural diversity, the celebrations will, for the first time, feature a vibrant confluence of cultures from nine different states of India. Based on the theme ‘Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat’, the special cultural programme will see participation from over 200 artists from states including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Bihar.

In addition, cultural performances by students from various schools across the state will be presented, while NCC cadets from universities, along with contingents of the armed forces and paramilitary forces, will take part in the ceremonial parade. Tableaux presented by different government departments will depict Uttar Pradesh’s development journey.

Artists from nine states including Chhattisgarh, Assam and Bihar to perform

On the occasion of Republic Day, all departmental buildings in the capital, including the Vidhan Sabha, Lok Bhavan and Jan Bhavan, have been decorated with tricolour lighting. The celebrations will begin with the Governor unfurling the national flag, followed by a floral shower from a helicopter arranged by the district administration.

Under the ‘Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat’ theme, more than 200 artists from nine states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Bihar, will present performances highlighting India’s cultural unity. Artists from each state will perform elements inspired by other states’ cultures, bringing alive the spirit of national integration.

Local artists and schoolchildren to showcase cultural performances

Local artists from Uttar Pradesh will also spread the message of national unity through their cultural performances under the aegis of the Culture Department. Schoolchildren will present colourful cultural displays set to patriotic songs, reflecting India’s rich diversity.

Rehearsals for the event were held on Saturday outside the Vidhan Bhavan, where artists from across the state finalised their performances in formation. A total of 65 marching contingents from various schools will participate in the parade. Cultural tableaux from different departments will also be showcased, highlighting the state’s development journey. The best-performing tableaux will be awarded.

Parade by armed forces, paramilitary forces, UP Police and NCC cadets

The Republic Day parade will convey a strong message of unity and discipline through the participation of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, Uttar Pradesh Police and NCC cadets. The parade will include contingents from the armed forces, NCC, Scouts and Guides, Provincial Armed Constabulary, Forest Department, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Home Guards, Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and various police units.

The highlight of the parade will be the Thunderbolt Team, where armed personnel will demonstrate exceptional balance and skill on motorcycles. The parade route will begin from Ravindralaya near the Bal Sangrahalaya in Charbagh, pass through the Vidhan Sabha Marg and conclude at KD Singh Babu Stadium. Route diversions have been implemented by the district administration for the event.

Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other distinguished guests will be present at the Republic Day समारोह.

Renowned personalities from Uttar Pradesh to be honoured with Padma Awards

On the eve of Republic Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the Padma Awards. From Uttar Pradesh, Ms N. Rajam has been honoured with the Padma Vibhushan for her outstanding contribution to the field of art. Several other eminent personalities from the state will receive the Padma Shri for their achievements in different fields.

Padma Shri awardees include Anil Kumar Rastogi and Chiranjee Lal Yadav (Art), Ashok Kumar Singh (Science and Engineering), Keval Krishna Thakral, Rajendra Prasad and Shyam Sundar (Medicine), Ms Mangala Kapoor (Literature and Education), Praveen Kumar (Sports), Raghupat Singh (Agriculture, posthumous), and Buddha Rashmi Mani (Archaeology).

Through their exceptional contributions, these individuals have enhanced Uttar Pradesh’s prestige at national and international levels. Their recognition with Padma honours is a matter of pride for the entire state.