This Republic Day, PM Modi’s maroon turban honours Operation Sindoor

PM Modi’s choice of headgear has become a signature element of his Republic Day appearances, often carrying regional symbolism and thematic messaging.

• PM Modi wore a maroon silk sehra with golden peacock motifs on Republic Day
• His headgear honors Operation Sindoor, showcasing Western Indian textile traditions.
• Modi's Republic Day turbans showcase India's diverse weaving and dyeing heritage

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked India’s 77th Republic Day on Monday, wearing a richly crafted Indian silk safa in deep maroon, adorned with intricate golden morpankh (peacock feather) motifs. The headgear, a tribute to Operation Sindoor, honours India’s military achievements and adds ceremonial gravitas to the celebrations.

Early in the day, PM Modi wore the same maroon silk turban while paying homage to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial, maintaining a consistent ceremonial look throughout Republic Day events.

The safa featured delicate gold embroidery, subtle green accents, and layered detailing at the rear, reflecting the classical craftsmanship of Western Indian textile traditions. Known for favouring bandhej (tie-and-dye) styles from Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, PM Modi has long used Republic Day and Independence Day appearances to showcase India’s rich weaving and dyeing heritage.

This year’s turban continues the Prime Minister’s signature tradition of colourful, region-inspired headgear. Over the past decade, his safa and pagdi choices have become highlights of national ceremonies, blending cultural symbolism with ceremonial elegance. The maroon hue also draws symbolic parallels with sindoor (vermillion), reflecting courage, strength, and the spirit of sacrifice.

77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the saluting dais at Kartavya Path in Delhi to witness the parade

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(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/Xb9dNsnJQD — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026

The 2026 safa stood out for its deep maroon hue, golden morpankh motifs, and subtle green highlights. Worn in a traditional Rajasthani style, it added vibrancy to the parade as crowds gathered along Kartavya Path to witness the Republic Day celebrations.

Since assuming office in 2014, the Prime Minister has worn a different headgear on Republic Day and Independence Day, drawing attention both in India and internationally for blending traditional aesthetics with modern tailoring.

In earlier years, his Republic Day headgear has included a bright red Jodhpuri bandhej turban in 2014, a yellow turban with multicoloured criss-cross patterns in 2015, and a soft pink-and-yellow tie-and-dye turban in 2016. He followed this with a red-and-yellow turban with intricate golden detailing in 2017 and a saffron turban symbolising national pride in 2018.

More recent choices featured a traditional Uttarakhand cap with a Brahma Kamal-inspired brooch in 2022, a multicoloured traditional pheta in 2023, and a saffron, pink, white and yellow Bandhani-print turban in 2024, continuing his emphasis on India’s rich textile and cultural diversity.