From Bhairav commandos to Shreya Ghoshal: What’s new at Republic Day Parade 2026
PTC Web Desk: The first Republic Day Parade after Operation Sindoor marked a turning point in India’s ceremonial history, with multiple first-ever appearances that reflected a changing military, cultural and civic landscape. From elite commando units and women officers breaking barriers to cinema and animals joining the spectacle, this year’s parade on Kartavya Path was unlike any before.
Bhairav units make their Republic Day debut
For the first time, the Indian Army paraded its newly raised Bhairav units, specialised light commando battalions designed for rapid deployment. Trained in drone warfare, high-altitude mobility and border surveillance, these elite troops operate in some of the harshest terrains along India’s frontiers. Their presence underscores the Army’s growing focus on speed, technology and adaptability.
Women officers lead from the front
History was scripted on Kartavya Path as Assistant Commandant Simran Bala of the CRPF became the first woman officer to command an all-men contingent at the Republic Day Parade. The 26-year-old officer from Jammu and Kashmir lead over 140 male personnel, marking a significant milestone for women in central armed police forces.
Another breakthrough comes from the skies. Captain Hansja Sharma, 27, commanded the 251 Army Aviation Squadron during the flypast. As India’s first woman pilot qualified to fly the Rudra Armed Helicopter, her role signals the expanding combat leadership roles for women in the armed forces.
Indian cinema finds a place on R-Day
In a first for the parade’s cultural segment, Indian cinema officially represented through a special tableau titled ‘Bharat Gatha’, presented by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali had conceptualised the presentation, making him the first film director to feature at the Republic Day Parade.
Adding a musical highlight, playback singer Shreya Ghoshal lent her voice to a specially composed song for the tableau, blending cinematic storytelling with national heritage.
Animal contingent returns with rare species
The Indian Army’s Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) presented a curated animal contingent, another first for the grand parade. The display included two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, 10 Indian-breed Army dogs, and six conventional military dogs. The contingent highlighted the Army’s long-standing bond with animals in logistics, combat support and ceremonial roles.
VVIP enclosures renamed after Indian rivers
Breaking away from tradition, the parade venue’s stands were no longer be labelled as VVIP enclosures. Instead, they were named after major Indian rivers such as Ganga, Narmada, Brahmaputra, Kaveri and Beas, symbolising inclusivity and cultural continuity.
- With inputs from agencies
