The Republic Day Parade in New Delhi, held on January 26, 2024, unfolded as a mesmerizing tapestry of cultural diversity, and at the heart of this grand spectacle was the Art Section, where states and other entities showcased their unique artistic expressions. Let’s read about the vivid and captivating world of the tableaux, exploring their themes, artwork, and the noteworthy elements that made each a masterpiece.
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Maharashtra
The focal point of Maharashtra’s Republic Day parade tableau was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s establishment of self-rule and his commitment to respecting women in his ‘kingdom of the people.’ The tableau illustrated Rajmata Jijabai imparting governance and political lessons to the young Shivaji. Additionally, it portrayed Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan Mandal, featuring scenes of women expressing their concerns in the court. The rear part of the tableau depicted Chhatrapati Shivaji, Rajmata Jijabai, and other courtiers against the backdrop of forts and the Royal seal. Last year marked the celebration of the 350th anniversary of the coronation of the Maratha warrior.
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh, making students globally competitive,’ highlighting the government’s educational reforms. The entire tableau portrayed the transformation of the medium of education, transitioning from Telugu to Hindi and then to English. At the forefront, the tableau displayed the traditional village classrooms with students using slates, representing the old pattern of education.
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On either side, the concept of modern playschools was depicted, featuring children, while above, a science lab showcased students engaging in experiments. In the centre, students using tablets were projected, symbolizing technological integration in education. The tableau further illustrated a digital classroom with interactive panels and a smart TV, featuring an arch displaying bilingual textbooks, science articles, and mathematical instruments. It progressed to depict digital classrooms and English labs with interactive panels and smart TVs, emphasizing the advancements in the educational system.
Ladakh
The Ladakh tableaux showcased women’s empowerment through employment during Republic Day celebrations on the Kartavya path. It shared the achievements and contributions of Ladakh women in sports with the Indian women’s ice hockey team.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu’s Parade tableaux highlighted the ancient ‘Kudavolai’ voting system. The ‘Kidavolai’ system, dating back to the Chola period around 900 CE, was showcased as a precursor to today’s constitutional democracy.
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Gujarat
The Gujarat government’s tableau highlighted the renowned ‘Bhunga’ houses of Dhordo, recognized by the UNWTO. It provided a glimpse into the state’s abundant cultural heritage. Recently honoured by the United Nations World Tourism Organization as one of the finest tourism villages, Dhordo played a central role in presenting a distinctive fusion of tradition, tourism, and technology, encapsulating the spirit of a developed India.
Meghalaya
This year’s Republic Day parade featured the Meghalaya tableau, presenting a captivating showcase of the state’s cherry blossoms. The tableau transformed the landscape into a picturesque canvas, adorned with delicate shades of pink. Gracefully swaying cherry blossom trees created a mesmerizing scene, reminiscent of a dreamy springtime paradise. The gentle fall of petals formed a serene carpet on the ground, evoking a sense of tranquillity and beauty. This portrayal symbolizes Meghalaya’s enchanting cherry blossom season. Shifting focus, the tableau was then immersed into the distinctive freshwater scuba diving site along the Umngot River in Dawki.
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Odisha
The victorious tableau from Odisha prominently showcased the active involvement of women in the handicraft and handloom sector through live demonstrations. It also acknowledged their adeptness in adapting to technology, featuring live examples of cashless transactions and E-platform marketing. A substantial umbrella served as a symbolic representation of the steadfast support extended by both the central and state governments to artisans under the ‘Viksit Bharat’ program. The inclusion of the ‘War Horse of Konark Temple’ symbolized Odisha’s rapid progress in contributing to the development of India. Additionally, the divine elephant ‘Kandarpa Hasti’ was a symbolic representation of Odisha’s women’s dedication to ‘Viksit Bharat,’ akin to the devotion of Gopi to Lord Sri Krishna.
Uttar Pradesh
The tableau from Uttar Pradesh showcased an artistic portrayal of Ram Lalla, whose new idol was consecrated at a grand temple in Ayodhya. Additionally, it highlighted the country’s inaugural operational high-speed regional rapid transit system. This system, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October on the priority section of its first corridor, was a notable feature. Notably, Uttar Pradesh’s tableau secured the top award in 2022, focusing on the “One District, One Product” initiative and the Kashi Vishwanath theme.
The state’s tableaux won second place in the people’s choice category.
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