India will mark its 77th Republic Day on 26 January - the day when the country adopted its constitution and formally became a republic, breaking from its colonial past.
The annual grand parade will take place along Delhi's iconic central boulevard, with military tanks rolling past and fighter jets roaring overhead as thousands watch.
The parade is a spectacle in itself, but attention is also focused on who is occupying the most prominent seats at the ceremony. This year, it will be European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa.
India has invited them as chief guests for the celebrations, placing the European Union at the centre of one of the country's most prestigious state events.
On this day, India turns the heart of its capital into a stage. Thousands of troops march before cheering crowds, armoured vehicles move down the Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath or King's Avenue) and colourful tableaux or floats pass by spectators in Delhi, while millions more watch on their screens across the country.
