Republic Day 2026: Bengaluru’s Manekshaw Parade Roads Closed, Here Are Alternative Routes

Preparations for Republic Day 2026 in Karnataka are in full swing, with the main state-level parade set to take place at the Manekshaw Parade Ground in Bengaluru. The venue has been readied for the police and armed forces march-past, and heavy security arrangements are in place.

Bengaluru City Traffic Police have announced vehicle restrictions and diversions around the parade ground from 8.30 am to 10.30 am to ensure smooth conduct of the event.

Flag Hoisting and Dignitaries

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot is scheduled to hoist the National Flag at Manekshaw Parade Ground at 9.00 am, followed by the ceremonial guard of honour. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and several other dignitaries are expected to attend the ceremony.

The Governor is also set to address the gathering after the ceremonial events. The speech has drawn public attention amid recent discussions over his joint session address, with curiosity over which policy points and programmes will feature. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commented, "while Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has the discretion to make changes to his Republic Day speech, but is constitutionally bound to deliver the address prepared by the state government for the joint session of the legislature.," highlighting the ongoing interest in the speech content.

Traffic Diversions and Vehicle Restrictions

Traffic around the Manekshaw Parade Ground will remain restricted during the parade. Vehicle entry is banned on Cubbon Road, Kamaraj Road, and BRV Road from 8.30 am to 10.30 am. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes to avoid delays.

Vehicles travelling from Infantry Road towards Manipal Center will need to follow a diversion: turn left at Safina Plaza, proceed via Main Guard Road to Alice Circle, continue along Dispensary Road, turn onto Kamaraj Road, right at Dickenson Road junction, and finally along Cubbon Road to reach Manipal Center.

Parking Restrictions

Parking has been prohibited on several key stretches near the central business district to maintain security and emergency access. No-parking rules apply on:

Central Street, Anil Kumble Circle, Shivajinagar bus stand

Cubbon Road (CTO Circle to K.R. Road, up to Cubbon Junction)

M.G. Road (Anil Kumble Circle to Queen's Circle)

Authorities have advised commuters to park in interior lanes and walk to their destinations to avoid disruption.

Security Arrangements

Access to Manekshaw Parade Ground will be controlled through colour-coded passes. Gate 2 is reserved for emergency service vehicles, while media personnel will enter via Gate 4, which has dedicated facilities for coverage.

The parade will feature a cultural programme with around 1,400 schoolchildren performing at the venue. Tamil Nadu Police personnel will join the parade this year, marking a special inclusion. Marching contingents include units from the Army, Air Force, CRPF women personnel, Scouts and Guides, NCC, Sevadal, and school students.

In total, about 1,100 participants will take part in the parade segment, with cultural teams and security units contributing to a visually engaging and orderly event. Organisers have planned arrangements to manage both invitees and the general public efficiently.

Statewide Celebrations

While Bengaluru hosts the main parade, Republic Day events will also be conducted across Karnataka. District in-charge ministers and deputy commissioners will lead local ceremonies, hoisting the National Flag and coordinating programmes that mirror the official celebrations in the state capital.