At the 77th Republic Day Parade in New Delhi, a long-cherished wish of the late Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor came true as Indian cinema received a dedicated tableau — a moment that many fans and industry insiders saw as fulfilling his dream of seeing films honoured on the national stage.
The tableau, themed “Bharat Gatha,” was presented on January 26, 2026 during the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, crafted in collaboration between the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. It marked the first time that Indian cinema was showcased so prominently at the parade, highlighting the industry’s cultural impact and its role as a storyteller of India’s heritage and values.
In 2020, Rishi Kapoor had publicly suggested that Indian cinema deserved a place in the Republic Day Parade. Sharing his thoughts on social media ahead of the 71st Republic Day, he urged the government to dedicate a prominent float to the film industry, pointing out that Indian films were some of the largest and most influential in the world.
In his words, “I request the Indian government to dedicate a major”float”to the the Indian Film industry (which is now the largest in the world) All artistes would be part of the Parade and March past. The world must see our participation too. We are all proud “Desis” Next year. Jai Hind!” Kapoor's suggestion was initially met with both support and criticism online.
I request the Indian government to dedicate a major”float”to the the Indian Film industry (which is now the largest in the world) All artistes would be part of the Parade and March past. The world must see our participation too. We are all proud “Desis” Next year. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 🙏— Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) January 25, 2020
Six years after that appeal, the Bharat Gatha tableau rolled past dignitaries and the national flag, celebrating cinema not simply as entertainment but as a cultural ambassador that carries Indian stories across generations and borders. Curated to reflect the evolution of Indian storytelling from traditional folk arts and epics to the modern film medium, the display symbolised the continuity between India’s ancient heritage and its contemporary creative expression.
With over 1,500 films produced annually across multiple languages, Indian cinema’s global footprint has grown significantly over the years, making its Republic Day appearance both symbolic and meaningful for audiences at home and abroad.
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