BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026, was a vibrant display of national pride, military strength, and cultural richness, drawing warm words of admiration from Kuwait’s Ambassador to India, Mustafa Meshal Al-Shemali. While speaking to Arabian Times on the sidelines of the grand event in New Delhi, Ambassador Al-Shemali extended heartfelt congratulations to India’s leadership and people. He described Republic Day as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices ordinary Indians made to build a nation grounded in democracy, justice, equality, and freedom.
“It’s inspiring to see how India has stayed true to its constitutional values since independence in 1947,” he noted, praising the country’s enduring commitment to democratic principles. The ambassador highlighted the strong, time-tested friendship between India and Kuwait, calling it a partnership built on mutual respect and shared goals. From political dialogue to economic ties, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people connections, the relationship keeps growing stronger. Regular high-level visits and cooperation in various fields reflect common interests and values that bind the two nations closer.
This year’s parade at Kartavya Path was truly spectacular. It began with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial, accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff and service chiefs. President Droupadi Murmu, joined by dignitaries, then took the salute to kick off the proceedings. Thousands gathered, including senior leaders like Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, foreign diplomats, and excited spectators. The parade showcased India’s military prowess through impressive marching formations by the Army, Navy, and Air Force contingents.
Advanced missiles, indigenously developed weapons, and mechanized columns rolled down the avenue, symbolizing the nation’s defense readiness and self-reliance. A historic highlight was the participation of a European Union contingent, representatives from the EU Military Staff and naval operations, marching alongside Indian forces. This marked a special milestone in India-EU ties, especially with EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa attending as chief guests. Adding warmth and color were 30 vibrant tableaux that celebrated India’s diverse heritage, developmental strides, and technological progress.
From regional traditions to modern innovations, they painted a picture of a united, forward-looking nation. Ambassador Al-Shemali reflected on the deeper meaning of the day: adopting the Constitution set the stage for India’s first parliamentary elections in 1952, a key step in its democratic journey. He reaffirmed Kuwait’s dedication to deepening bilateral ties, expressing optimism that cooperation will expand further in pursuit of peace, prosperity, and stability for both countries and the region. In essence, Republic Day 2026 wasn’t just a celebration, it was a reaffirmation of India’s democratic spirit and its growing global friendships, including the enduring bond with Kuwait.
