Imphal, January 13, 2026: A contingent of 92 artistes and students from the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) will represent Manipur at the Republic Day Parade 2026 in New Delhi, showcasing the state's rich cultural heritage and centuries-old artistic traditions before a national and international audience during India's 77th Republic Day celebrations.
According to an official announcement issued by Lok Bhavan, Manipur, the cultural delegation has been selected to participate in the prestigious Republic Day celebrations to be held on January 26, 2026. The participation is expected to highlight the unique identity of Manipur through its world-renowned classical dance, traditional percussion, and devotional performance arts.
As part of the preparations for the national event, a 50-member advance team comprising Manipuri dance performers departed for New Delhi on Monday to begin rehearsals and coordination with organisers. The remaining 42-member contingent, consisting of artistes specialising in Pung (traditional Manipuri drum) and Sankirtana, is scheduled to leave for the national capital today.
Together, the two groups will present performances that reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Manipur. Their repertoire is expected to include traditional Manipuri classical dance, rhythmic percussion, and Sankirtana performances, which are deeply rooted in the state's Vaishnavite traditions and have earned national and international recognition.
The participation of the JNMDA artistes offers an opportunity to showcase Manipur's distinctive cultural legacy before dignitaries, foreign delegates, and millions of viewers across the country. Republic Day celebrations provide one of India's largest cultural platforms, where selected states present their unique traditions alongside military parades and ceremonial events.
Extending its best wishes to the delegation, Lok Bhavan expressed confidence that the artistes would make the people of Manipur proud through an outstanding performance. The Governor's Secretariat noted that the academy's participation reflects the exceptional talent, discipline, and dedication of Manipur's performing artists and serves as a testament to the state's vibrant cultural identity.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, one of India's premier institutions dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Manipuri dance, music, and allied performing arts, has consistently represented the state at prestigious national and international cultural festivals. Over the years, the academy has played a pivotal role in preserving traditional art forms while nurturing generations of accomplished performers.
The upcoming performance at the Republic Day Parade is expected to further enhance Manipur's reputation as a cultural powerhouse and reinforce the importance of preserving the state's unique artistic heritage for future generations.
