Sanjay Leela Bhansali is set to create a historic moment for Indian cinema this Republic Day. For the first time, an Indian film director will represent the country’s film industry at the Republic Day parade. This marks a unique crossover between cinema and national celebration.
Bhansali will present a special parade display celebrating Indian cinema. The project is a collaboration between the filmmaker and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It is being described as a landmark recognition of cinema as an art form that reflects India’s culture.
The display will be showcased at Kartavya Path during the Republic Day parade on January 26. Cinema will take its place alongside other symbols of national pride.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali To Represent Indian Cinema On Republic Day 2026
As per a source quoted by TOI, “For the first time ever, a true flag-bearer of Indian cinema, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, will represent Indian cinema at the Republic Day Parade. This historic honour marks a defining chapter for Indian cinema and is set to create strong national momentum. There could be no better representative for this moment than Sanjay Leela Bhansali.”
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This recognition is significant not just because it is a first, but also because of what Bhansali represents. Known for his grand visual style, emotional storytelling, and deep cultural roots, his films often draw from Indian history, literature, and music. His presence at the parade highlights the growing cultural importance of cinema beyond entertainment.
Bhansali’s Journey, Films And Upcoming Projects
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is one of the most influential filmmakers in Indian cinema. He has worked as a director, producer, screenwriter, editor and music composer. SLB has won seven National Film Awards and was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2015.
He made his directorial debut with Khamoshi: The Musical in 1996. He rose to fame with Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam in 1999 and Devdas in 2002. His 2005 film Black won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.
Bhansali continued to explore new themes with Saawariya in 2007 and Guzaarish in 2010, the latter marking his debut as a music composer. Over the next decade, he created some of Indian cinema’s most iconic period dramas, including Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat and Gangubai Kathiawadi.
In 2024, he launched his music label, Bhansali Music, and made his OTT debut with the web series Heeramandi. Currently, he is co-producing Do Deewane Seher Mein, a romantic drama starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur. Directed by Ravi Udyawar, the film is set for release on February 20.
Bhansali’s next big film is Love And War. It stars Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. Initially planned for Christmas 2025, the release may move to March 20, 2026. The makers have not officially confirmed the new date.
