ARMY DAY PARADE 2026 FULL DRESS REHEARSAL AND “SHAURYA SANDHYA” CAPTIVATE JAIPUR

Jaipur, Jaipur again witnessed a powerful and evocative showcase of military excellence, tradition and national pride on 13 January 2026, as the Sapta Shakti Command conducted the third Full Dress Rehearsal of the 78th Army Day Parade 2026 in the morning at Mahal Road, Jagatpura, followed by the grand evening spectacle “Shaurya Sandhya” at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. The day-long events marked a significant milestone in the run-up to the historic Army Day Parade scheduled on 15 January 2026.

Bathed in the soft winter sun, the Full Dress Rehearsal transformed Mahal Road into a magnificent ceremonial arena, resonating with discipline, precision and martial splendour. The rehearsal was reviewed by Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander, Sapta Shakti Command, who took the salute and lauded the impeccable drill, operational synergy and professional excellence displayed by the marching contingents, mechanized columns and supporting elements. His presence underscored the importance of the parade as a celebration of the Indian Army’s legacy, combat readiness and transformation into a future-ready force.

Against the backdrop of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage, the parade showcased the bravery, sacrifice and evolving capabilities of the Indian Army. One of the main attractions was the display of indigenously developed modern military equipment, reflecting the Army’s commitment to self-reliance. Advanced weapon systems and new platforms, many of which have been used successfully during Operation SINDOOR, were displayed alongside proven legacy equipment. The participation of a Nepal Army contingent highlighted the strong and long-standing military ties between India and Nepal. Colourful Rajasthani tableaus and cultural performances added local flavour and visual appeal to the event.

The flawless execution of the rehearsal reflected the exemplary coordination between Sapta Shakti Command, the Government of Rajasthan and the civil administration, whose collective efforts have transformed Mahal Road into a world-class ceremonial venue. Large numbers of citizens, veterans, students and families thronged the venue, making the rehearsal a truly people-centric military event.

As dusk descended, the focus shifted to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, where “Shaurya Sandhya” unfolded as a stirring tribute to the courage, sacrifice and professionalism of the Indian Army. The evening commenced with an enthralling Brass Band performance by the Nepal Army and Indian Army bands, celebrating centuries-old military and cultural linkages between the two nations. This was followed by a robotic mule display, highlighting the Army’s growing technological prowess and rapid induction of modern systems.

The programme featured the ceremonial release of tricolour balloons, a paramotor flypass and dynamic displays of martial traditions including Kalaripayattu and Mallakhamb, reflecting the Army’s physical excellence and warrior ethos. A gripping sight-and-sound enactment of Operation SINDOOR emerged as a centerpiece of the evening, vividly portraying battlefield courage, coordination and operational brilliance of Indian Army soldiers.

The grand finale - a spectacular drone show, illuminated the Jaipur skyline with thousands of synchronized drones, creating breathtaking formations depicting iconic symbols and national themes. The visuals included the chariot of Arjun and Lord Krishna, portraits of legendary Indian warriors, representations of serving soldiers, veterans and brave hearts, the Decade of Transformation, the Year of Reforms and a special tribute to Rajasthan. The show culminated with the National Anthem, rendered in awe-inspiring aerial choreography, leaving the audience spellbound.

Together, the Full Dress Rehearsal and Shaurya Sandhya reaffirmed that the Army Day celebrations in Jaipur are not merely ceremonial events but a heartfelt salute to the men and women in uniform and a celebration of the enduring bond between the Indian Army and the people of India as the Pink City stands poised to host the 78th Army Day Parade 2026 on 15 January.