New Delhi: Every year on 26 January, when the Republic Day parade takes place in the wanted Delhi, one squatter attracts the sustentation of not only the country but the unshortened world. This is the squatter of a foreign leader whom India invites as the senior guest. It is often considered a respectable formality, but the real meaning goes much deeper than this. The senior guest of Republic Day is an indication of India's foreign policy, global thinking and strategy for the future.
How did the tradition of calling the senior guest begin?
The Constitution of India came into gravity on 26 January 1950 and the country became a republic. From the same day it was decided that no foreign leader would be invited to this national function. The objective was clear—India wanted to show itself not just as a new nation, but as a responsible member of the international community.
Who was the first foreign senior guest of India?
Indonesian President Sukarno was made the senior guest on the first Republic Day. At that time the parade was held at Irwin Stadium in Delhi, which is today tabbed Dada Dhyan Chand Stadium. This invitation reflected the spirit of friendship and worldwide struggle between the newly self-sustaining countries of Asia.
Was Republic Day overly prestigious without the senior guest?
Yes, it has happened. No foreign leader was invited as the senior guest at the Republic Day celebrations in 1952 and 1953. At that time the country was struggling with internal challenges and the global situation was moreover not favourable. Later, from 1955, the parade started stuff held regularly on Rajpath, now tabbed Dutta Path.
On what understructure is the senior guest selected?
Selecting the senior guest is a long process, preparation for which begins several months in advance. The Ministry of External Affairs handles this responsibility. In this it is seen at what level India's political, economic, defense and diplomatic relations are with the concerned country.
Is it just a matter of respect?
According to former diplomats, selection of the senior guest is not just a matter of respect. Through this, the message is given that with which countries India wants to strengthen its relations and in which direction it plans to move forward.
What is its relation with defense and trade?
Many times the senior guest is the same leader with whose country India wants to increase partnership on defense cooperation, trade agreements or global issues. In a way, this is a diplomatic signal given from an unshut forum.
Who will be the senior guest on the 77th Republic Day?
The top leader of the European Union will be the senior guest on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be on a state visit to India from 25 to 27 January 2026.
What does this midpoint for India-EU relations?
This tour will not be limited to just the parade. Both the leaders will moreover participate in the India-EU summit. This is stuff considered an important step towards giving new strength to trade, technology and strategic partnership.
What does the senior guest represent?
The senior guest of Republic Day gives a glimpse of India's priorities, its global thinking and future international relations. This is the reason why this selection is viewed so seriously every year.
