On India’s 76th Republic Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again transformed a national ceremonial occasion into a stunning visual narrative of India’s rich cultural heritage with his attire.
The Prime Minister wore a red and yellow Bandhej ‘safa’ (turban), its vibrant hues complemented by its long, elegantly draping tail.
The outfit was anchored by a crisp white kurta-pyjama, providing a clean, classic foundation. Completing the look was a brown bandh gala jacket with a tailored silhouette and a vibrant pocket square that added a touch of lively contrast.
The choice of a Bandhani-style safa is particularly meaningful. Bandhani, a tie-dye technique popular in Gujarat and Rajasthan, involves intricate hand-plucking of fabric to create complex patterns.
The pagdi was far more than a fashion statement; it served as a powerful reminder of India’s diverse textile heritage, showcasing the richness of traditional craftsmanship passed down through generations.
In this screenshot taken from @narendramodi via Youtube Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives President Droupadi Murmu and chief guest President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto for the 76th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path, in New Delhi, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. (Source: @narendramodi via PTI Photo)
A decade of sartorial storytelling
Since being elected the prime minister of India for the first time in 2014, Modi has consistently used his Republic Day and Independence Day appearances as a canvas to celebrate India’s textile diversity and regional craftsmanship.
Modi’s turbans over the years
Each year, Modi’s choice of headgear has been a deliberate celebration of India’s textile traditions:
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Republic Day highlights
- 2014: A bright red Jodhpuri “bandhej” turban, marking his first year in office
- 2015: A yellow turban adorned with multi-colored criss-cross lines
- 2016: A tie-and-dye masterpiece in soft pink and yellow hues
- 2017: A dramatic blend of bright red and yellow with intricate golden crisscrossed lines
- 2018: A regal saffron turban symbolizing national pride
- 2022: A unique traditional cap from Uttarakhand, featuring a Brahma Kamal-inspired brooch
- 2023: A traditional pheta with orange, red, green, yellow, and white patterns
- 2024: A classic saffron, pink, white, and yellow Bandhani print turban