As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, tributes pour in for Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, whose vision of a socialist, equal, and independent India continues to inspire the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
On January 26, 2026, amidst the grand parade at Kartavya Path and the unfurling of the Tricolour across the nation, one name echoed loudly on social media and in the hearts of millions—Shaheed Bhagat Singh. While the day marks the adoption of the Constitution, citizens and leaders alike took a moment to remember the revolutionary who laid down his life at the age of 23 to make this freedom possible.
From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the youth on college campuses, the tribute to Bhagat Singh this year focused on aligning his revolutionary dreams with the modern aspiration of a Developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047.
The Undying Legacy on Republic Day
While the 77th Republic Day celebrations featured military might and cultural tableaus, the spirit of Bhagat Singh remained a central theme in online discourses and local events.
1. Leaders Pay Homage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders paid floral tributes to the freedom fighters. In his message, the PM often reiterates that the “New India” is being built on the foundation of courage and sacrifice laid by heroes like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.
“The bravery of Bhagat Singh is not just history; it is a living inspiration for every young Indian working towards a self-reliant nation,” is a sentiment that resonated throughout the day’s speeches.
2. Punjab’s Tableau: A Spiritual Tribute
This year, the Punjab State Tableau at the Republic Day parade garnered special attention. While in previous years (like 2022) the tableau directly featured Bhagat Singh, the 2026 tableau was dedicated to the Shaheedi (Martyrdom) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and the theme of humanity.
- The Connection: Although the tableau focused on the Guru, the essence of “sacrifice against tyranny” remains the common thread connecting the Guru’s legacy to Bhagat Singh’s revolutionary fight.
- Public Sentiment: Many social media users shared images of Bhagat Singh alongside the tableau, celebrating Punjab as the land of martyrs.
3. A Call for ‘Mental Freedom’
Experts and columnists discussing Bhagat Singh today emphasized that his battle was not just against the British, but against communalism, casteism, and inequality. On Republic Day, the youth were urged to adopt his scientific temper and rational thinking to truly honor his memory.
Why Bhagat Singh Matters for ‘Viksit Bharat’
As India pushes for economic superpower status, Bhagat Singh’s ideology of “Atmanirbhar” (Self-Reliance) is more relevant than ever.
- Youth Leadership: Bhagat Singh believed that youth are the changemakers. With India having one of the largest youth populations in the world in 2026, his belief is turning into reality.
- Social Justice: His vision was not just political freedom but economic freedom for farmers and workers—a goal that remains a priority for the government today.
Recent Updates & Controversy
- Statue Incident in Bhopal: Just days before Republic Day, a minor controversy erupted in Bhopal where a statue of Bhagat Singh was accidentally damaged during Metro construction work. Local authorities acted swiftly to file a case and promised immediate restoration, showing the high sensitivity and respect the nation holds for the martyr.
- Padma Bhushan Confusion: In a separate news trend today, former Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari was awarded the Padma Bhushan. Readers searching for “Bhagat Singh news” should note the distinction between the freedom fighter and the political leader receiving the civilian honor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is Bhagat Singh remembered on Republic Day?
While Independence Day (Aug 15) marks freedom from British rule, Republic Day (Jan 26) celebrates the Constitution. Bhagat Singh is remembered because his sacrifice paved the way for the independent, sovereign republic we celebrate today.
Q2: Was there a Bhagat Singh tableau in the 2026 Parade?
No, the Punjab tableau for Republic Day 2026 was dedicated to the martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and the values of humanity and sacrifice.
Q3: What is the famous slogan of Bhagat Singh?
His most famous slogan is “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution).
Q4: Did the Prime Minister pay tribute to Bhagat Singh today?
Yes, tributes to freedom fighters, including Bhagat Singh, are a customary and integral part of the Prime Minister’s and President’s Republic Day observances.
Q5: What is the ‘Viksit Bharat’ connection to Bhagat Singh?
‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) is the goal for 2047. Leaders often cite Bhagat Singh to inspire the youth to work hard, innovate, and build the strong nation that the martyrs dreamt of.