Beating Retreat 2026: Schedule, Indian Tunes, and Ceremony Highlights at Vijay Chowk

The Beating Retreat event on January 29, 2026, would be the grand climax of India's 77th Republic Day celebrations. The Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Delhi Police, and Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) bands will perform musically at the occasion. The event is presided over by India's President, who serves as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. This year's event is themed on the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram' and will showcase an all-Indian repertoire. 

The Beating Retreat Ceremony 2026 officially completes the 77th Republic Day celebrations, combining centuries of military tradition with India's rich musical heritage. This year, the air will be filled solely with Indian compositions, symbolising the country's journey towards Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in all aspects, including its artistic expressions. 

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The Feature Performances of Beating Retreat Ceremony 2026

The ceremony will feature performances by bands from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Below is the breakdown of the soulful tunes scheduled to resonate through the heart of the capital:

The ceremony will reach its emotional peak with the timeless melody of "Sare Jahan Se Acha," performed by the buglers as the National Flag is lowered at dusk.

Key Highlights of 2026: 

• Theme of the Year: The 2026 celebrations focus on the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram', composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. This theme is reflected in the musical choices and the ceremonial invitation cards.

• Unique Seating: In a nod to India’s diverse musical legacy, the seating enclosures at Vijay Chowk have been named after traditional Indian instruments, such as Bansuri, Damaru, Mridangam, Santoor, Shehnai, Sitar, and Tabla.

• Distinguished Guests: The event will be graced by President Smt. Droupadi Murmu (the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces), Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other top dignitaries.

• Principal Conductor: The entire ceremony will be led by Squadron Leader Leimapokpam Rupachandra Singh.

The Beating Retreat originated in the 1950s, when Major Roberts of the Indian Army invented it indigenously. It represents the historic military custom in which warriors stopped combat at sunset, sheathed their weapons, and withdrew from the battlefield as the bugles sounded the "Retreat." Today, it serves as a moving reminder of the Indian Armed Forces' discipline, unity, and sacrifice. 

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