Keeravani to compose Republic Day anthem for Vande Mataram’s 150th year

Oscar winning composer MM Keeravani , who won the Academy Award in 2023 for Best Original Song for “Naatu Naatu” from the film RRR, has been chosen to compose the music for the Republic Day Parade 2026 , a role he described as a deep honour and privilege.

Taking to X on Monday, Keeravani expressed his excitement about the opportunity, especially as it coincides with the 150th anniversary of the iconic patriotic song Vande Mataram . In his post, he wrote, “Dear all, Vande Mataram! On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the iconic song Vande Mataram , I feel deeply honoured and privileged to have composed the music for the 26th January Republic Day Parade, under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture . This grand presentation will be performed by 2,500 artists from across India. Stay tuned as we come together to celebrate the spirit of our nation - Vande Mataram! ”

The Republic Day parade rehearsals are currently underway at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, as preparations intensify ahead of the January 26 celebrations.

This year’s Republic Day celebrations will also have special international significance, with European Council President Antonio Luis Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attending as the chief guests.

As the nation prepares to celebrate its 77th Republic Day, the music composed by Keeravani is expected to add a powerful emotional tone to the parade, marking a memorable tribute to the enduring spirit of Vande Mataram .