Republic Day Parade 2026 Winners: UP Wins Best Tableau (Full List)
While the world watched the military might and cultural pageantry, the competition between states was fierce. The Ministry of Defence has released the official results for the Best Tableau and Marching Contingents.
🏆 The Winner’s Podium
- 1st Prize (Best Tableau): Uttar Pradesh
Theme: Mahakumbh 2025 – Swarnim Bharat - 2nd Prize: Tripura
Theme: Eternal Reverence: Kharchi Puja - 3rd Prize: Andhra Pradesh
Theme: Etikoppaka Bommalu (Traditional Toys)
Best Marching Contingent
The synchronization and discipline of the marching columns are the heartbeat of the parade. This year, the honor goes to:
- Army Contingent: Jammu & Kashmir Rifles (J&K Rifles).
- CAPF Contingent: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Mahila Band.
The “Space Hero” Moment (Ashoka Chakra)
Beyond the floats, the most emotional moment of the morning was the awarding of the Ashoka Chakra (India’s highest peacetime gallantry award). It was conferred upon Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the Indian Air Force pilot selected for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), recognizing his exemplary courage and contribution to India’s space ambitions.
Chief Guests & Diplomacy
In a diplomatic first, India hosted two leaders from the European Union simultaneously:
- Ursula von der Leyen (President, European Commission)
- António Costa (President, European Council)
Why UP’s Tableau Won?
Uttar Pradesh’s tableau stood out for its timely and spiritual theme. With the Mahakumbh Mela scheduled for 2025 in Prayagraj, the float depicted the grandeur of the gathering, the holy dip, and the vision of a “Swarnim Bharat” (Golden India), resonating deeply with the cultural ethos of the event.