The Prime Minister’s turban featured a traditional tie-dye Bandhej pattern in maroon, pink, green, yellow and blue hues, with a golden peacock-feather motif at its centre. He paired it with a dark blue kurta, a light blue half jacket and a white churidar pajama. Officials and observers noted that the colour scheme of the kurta and jacket appeared inspired by the uniforms of the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force, reflecting a symbolic tribute to the armed forces on Republic Day.
Every year, Modi’s choice of attire for the January 26 parade attracts public and media attention, often highlighting regional craftsmanship and national themes. This year’s look blended traditional Rajasthani textile art with contemporary symbolism linked to India’s defence services, aligning with the spirit of the Republic Day celebrations.
The Prime Minister arrived at Kartavya Path shortly before the start of the parade and was received by senior dignitaries. As Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, he took the salute during the march-past, where contingents from the Army, Navy and Air Force participated alongside tableaux representing states, Union Territories and central ministries.
Over the years, Modi’s Republic Day attire has become a visual chronicle of India’s cultural heritage. In 2025, he wore a saffron safa with red and yellow tones and a brown bandhgala coat, symbolising the theme of “Golden India” and Rajasthan’s legacy. In 2024, his Bandhani turban featured vibrant red, yellow, pink and blue shades, while in 2023 he opted for a leheriya turban with multicoloured patterns.
Earlier, in 2022, the Prime Minister wore a traditional Uttarakhand cap adorned with a Brahmakamal motif, and in 2021 he donned the Halari turban gifted by the royal family of Jamnagar. Saffron-toned turbans marked his appearances in 2019 and 2020, while Bandhani designs and solid colours such as pink and yellow featured prominently in earlier years, including his first Republic Day as Prime Minister in 2015.
Cultural experts note that these sartorial choices consistently underline regional crafts while reinforcing national identity on a globally watched occasion. As the 77th Republic Day celebrations unfolded, the Prime Minister’s attire once again served as a visual statement blending tradition, symbolism and respect for the country’s armed forces.
