Why This Year's 'At-Home' Invitation Republic Day Invite From President Is Unique

President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday offered a glimpse of a specially crafted invitation for the 77th Republic Day ‘At Home’ event, handcrafted by artisans of the Ashtalakshmi states, the eight states of Northeast India. Sharing a short film on the invitation kit on her social media handle, President Murmu wrote, "Here's a glimpse of the specially designed 'At Home' invitation that has been sent from the President of India to the guests for the 77th Republic Day. The invitation kit this year celebrates the living traditions of India's North Eastern Region. This invitation is a tribute to the skilled artisans and craftspeople of the Ashtalakshmi states."Instead of a standard card, this year’s invitation arrives as an artfully handcrafted box made

from a woven bamboo mat, a traditional craft from Tripura, with decorative motifs inspired by Assamese manuscript painting styles. Inside, guests will find a scroll‑style wall hanging and beautifully detailed fabric panels.

Here's a glimpse of the specially designed 'At-Home' invitation that has been sent from the President of India to the guests for the 77th Republic Day.The invitation kit this year celebrates the living traditions of India’s North Eastern Region. This invitation is a tribute to… pic.twitter.com/pUDkRUj5TI

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 18, 2026

Also Read | Republic Day 2026: Delhi Metro Timings, Station Closures, and Entry Rules ExplainedOther highlights of the invitation include woven nettle fabric and embroidery from Sikkim, green bamboo weave from Meghalaya, Mon Shugu paper from Arunachal Pradesh, the gogona, a traditional bamboo jaw harp from Assam, and bamboo jewellery from Tripura. It also features orange wild rhea and stinging nettle fabric from Nagaland, handwoven puan chei from Mizoram, Longpi black pottery from Manipur and an Eri silk stole.The President’s “At Home” on Republic Day is a ceremonial reception held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 26, bringing together dignitaries, eminent citizens and cultural figures for a showcase of India’s rich diversity. Often themed around different regions of the country, the event highlights traditional crafts, art and national achievements, serving as a festive complement to the main Republic Day parade.In addition to the Chief Guests invited to the parade, the Vice President and the Prime Minister also attend the reception. This year, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be the Chief Guests at the Republic Day Parade.Many eminent citizens who have made significant contributions across diverse fields will share the stage with beneficiaries of various government developmental programmes at the event.The President’s Secretariat also curates a showcase of vibrant artistic and cultural elements as part of the reception.According to the Ministry of Defence, this year’s Republic Day Parade will stand out for its unique blend of 150 years of Vande Mataram, a display of India’s military strength, including BrahMos and Akash missiles, and the country’s rich cultural diversity reflected through 30 colourful tableaux.