New Delhi, 17 January (H.S.): In preparation for India's grand Republic Day celebrations, the President's Secretariat has announced the temporary suspension of public visits to Rashtrapati Bhavan's Circuit-1, effective from Wednesday, January 21, through Thursday, January 29, 2026.

The measure ensures seamless security arrangements and logistical preparations for these marquee national events, which draw millions of spectators annually. Circuit-1, encompassing the Main Lawns, Durbar Hall, Ashoka Hall, and the Central Lawn, remains a perennial favorite among tourists for its architectural splendor and historical resonance.

The Republic Day Parade, a cornerstone of India's democratic festivities since 1950, commences on Tuesday, January 26, 2026—falling on a Monday this year—from the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. It proceeds along the iconic Kartavya Path past India Gate toward Red Fort, featuring majestic displays by the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force contingents, paramilitary forces, and vibrant state tableaux symbolizing cultural unity.

The Beating the Retreat Ceremony, marking the parade's ceremonial finale on January 29, adds a poignant coda with martial tunes and illuminations. These events necessitate heightened restrictions, including the suspension of the Change of Guard Ceremony on Saturdays from January 3 to 31, 2026.

Visitors are advised to plan alternative itineraries, such as exploring public vantage points near India Gate, which offer unobstructed views without requiring passes. Official passes for prime seating along the parade route, available via the Rashtrapati Parv portal, are limited and distributed weeks in advance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar