Bihar's Makhana Tableau to Grace Republic Day Celebrations in New Delhi
Patna: A magnificent tableau narrating the captivating story of fox nut, popularly known as makhana, will be presented at the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. Selected tableaux from various states and union territories are displayed at the iconic Red Fort in New Delhi as part of Bharat Parv, an event organized by the Ministry of Defence to commemorate Republic Day.
Tableau Theme: From Local Tradition to Global Superfood
Bihar’s tableau, titled ‘Makhana — A story of tradition, hard work and progress’, has successfully made it to the final selection list. According to an official press release issued by the Bihar state government, the theme of the tableau is “Makhana: Superfood from local to global plate.” This presentation aims to highlight how this humble aquatic crop has transformed into an internationally recognized nutritional powerhouse.
Visual Journey Through Two Distinct Sections
The visual structure of the tableau will depict the complete journey of makhana in two distinct and beautifully crafted parts:
- The first section will portray pristine white ‘lava makhana’ emerging gracefully between lotus leaves, with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag symbol prominently displayed in front. The sides will feature an artistic border inspired by traditional Mithila paintings, adding cultural depth to the presentation.
- The second section will showcase the entire meticulous process of makhana harvesting through detailed representations, including:
- Seed collection from ponds
- Grading and sorting
- Traditional roasting techniques
- Popping methods
- Modern packing procedures
- Quality control checks
Celebrating Traditional Labor and Women's Participation
On one side of the tableau, artisans will depict a woman skillfully roasting makhana in an iron pan placed on a traditional clay stove. On the opposite side, a man will be shown popping makhana using a wooden pestle, demonstrating age-old techniques. “This scene vividly presents traditional labour, women’s participation, and local skills,” the official press release emphasized. “This tableau conveys the powerful message that makhana is not just an agricultural product, but a confluence of heritage, labour, women’s participation, and entrepreneurship, which directly connects Bihar to global markets.”
Bridging Tradition with Modern Technology
The release further elaborated that Bihar’s tableau at Bharat Parv will transcend mere storytelling about makhana. It will demonstrate practically how traditional knowledge, when synergized with modern technology, creates sustainable pathways for local livelihoods to access and thrive in global markets. The presentation will specifically highlight how farmers, women workers, and small entrepreneurs are becoming integral participants in mainstream development processes through this industry.
Makhana: Bihar's 'White Gold' with Global Reach
Referring to makhana as Bihar’s ‘white gold’, the press release noted that while this produce originates in the ponds of Mithilanchal region, it is now being served on plates across the world with its growing reputation as a ‘superfood’. While India supplies the majority of the world’s makhana, Bihar’s contribution accounts for an impressive 85-90% of total national production, making it the heartland of this nutritious crop.
Strategic Initiatives and Global Recognition
“The establishment of the Makhana Board, the significant increase in exports, GI tag recognition, and the display of this tableau at Bharat Parv together send a clear message that Bihar’s makhana is no longer just a pond product,” the press release stated. “It is moving decisively toward becoming India’s global identity, which Bihar’s tableau at Bharat Parv will impressively present before the country and the world.” This presentation represents a proud moment for Bihar’s agricultural heritage and its evolving position in international food markets.
