Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again turned heads with his choice of traditional headgear at India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi on January 26, 2026. As part of the grand parade along Kartavya Path, Modi arrived wearing a multicoloured safa (turban) that stood out for its vibrant palette and intricate design, maintaining his long-established tradition of using fashion to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage.
This year’s turban featured deep reds, mustard yellows, greens and purples, tied in a classic Rajasthani style and embroidered with ornate gold motifs — a striking complement to his sky-blue Nehru jacket and navy kurta-pyjama ensemble.
A Decade of Iconic Turban Looks
Modi’s colourful turbans have become one of the most anticipated elements of his Republic Day appearances, with each year reflecting different facets of India’s textile traditions and regional diversity.
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2026: Multicoloured Rajasthani safa with gold motifs, paired with a light blue Nehru jacket and dark kurta-pyjama.
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2025: A bold red and yellow Bandhej turban paired with a brown bandhgala coat and churidar pants.
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2024: A vibrant Bandhani-print turban in tones of yellow, pink and saffron, matched with a white kurta and brown sadri.
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2023: Traditional pheta in orange, red and green patterns, paired with a classic kurta and scarf.
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Earlier years: From a grey-embroidered Uttarakhand cap in 2022 to a bright Halari Pagdi gifted by the Jamnagar royal family in 2021, Modi’s choices have celebrated regional craftsmanship across India.
This evolving visual chronicle of headgear has become symbolic of Modi’s broader efforts to highlight India’s handloom heritage and diverse artisanal traditions on the national stage.
More Than Just Fashion
While Republic Day is foremost a patriotic celebration — marked by military displays, cultural tableaux and remembrance ceremonies — Modi’s sartorial choices consistently draw public and media attention. His turbans serve not only as festive accessories but also as cultural statements, underscoring unity in diversity through fashion rooted in India’s varied regional identities.
Observers note that this blend of tradition and personal style reinforces the festive spirit of Republic Day and creates a visual narrative that resonates with audiences nationwide.
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