In a resounding celebration of women empowerment and the state’s rich handicraft and handloom sector, Odisha’s vibrant tableau secured the first prize among the various states and Union Territories participating in the 75th Republic Day parade in Delhi. This announcement was made during a ceremony at Delhi Cantonment, where the awards for the best tableaux were presented.
Gujarat also shone brightly as its tableau featuring the Dhordo tourism village clinched the first place in the people’s choice category. The ceremony, attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, showcased a total of 16 tableaux from states and Union territories and nine from central ministries and departments.
In the judge’s choice category, the Culture Ministry’s tableau with the theme ‘Bharat: Mother of Democracy’ claimed the first prize, while the Ministry of Home Affairs’ tableau depicting ‘vibrant villages’ secured the second position.
French President Emmanuel Macron graced the ceremonies as a total of 16 tableaux from states and Union territories and nine from central ministries and departments rolled down the Kartavya Path.
The winning tableau from Odisha highlighted women’s significant involvement in the handicraft and handloom sector through live demonstrations. It showcased women’s adaptation to technology by featuring their engagement in cashless transactions and e-platform marketing. Symbolizing whole-hearted support, the tableau included a big umbrella representing the central and state governments’ assistance to artisans under the “Viksit Bharat” program. The tableau also featured the “War Horse of Konark Temple,” symbolizing Odisha’s rapid progress, and the divine elephant “Kandarpa Hasti,” signifying the dedication of Odisha’s women to “Viksit Bharat.”
Gujarat’s winning tableau, themed ‘Dhordo: Global Identity of Gujarat’s Border Tourism,’ covered fascinating aspects of the art and culture of Kutch.
Tamil Nadu’s tableau highlighted the historical significance of the Kudavolai electoral system, which emerged during the 10th century Chola era, marking an early stride towards democracy.
Uttar Pradesh’s tableau showcased an artistic portrayal of Ram Lalla, the centerpiece of this year’s Republic Day celebration. The tableau also featured the country’s first high-speed regional rapid transit system (RRTS), unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October on the first corridor’s priority segment.
In the people’s choice category, UP secured the second position, and Andhra Pradesh claimed the third spot. Public voting through the MyGov platform played a crucial role in determining the winners in this category.
The accolades reflect the diverse and rich cultural tapestry of India, as depicted through these visually stunning and thematically significant tableaux presented during the Republic Day parade.
