NEW DELHI: The Rashtriya Rangshala Camp in Delhi Cantonment is buzzing with intense activity as the countdown to January 26 begins. The atmosphere is thick with the scent of fresh paint, while the persistent sounds of construction reverberate across the expansive parade ground. Artisans ascend makeshift staircases, painters apply final coats, and laborers meticulously position enormous structures. Within this organized chaos, the Republic Day tableaux are gradually coming to life, with every frame, hue, and intricate detail poised to narrate compelling stories along Kartavya Path.
Celebrating 150 Years of Vande Mataram
This year's Republic Day parade holds special significance as it commemorates 150 years of Vande Mataram, and this patriotic spirit permeates every artistic creation. On a recent Thursday, observers witnessed approximately 30 tableaux in various phases of completion, each one mirroring India's rich history, dynamic present, and ambitious future. Nearly 10,000 spectators are expected to watch these mobile spectacles glide down Kartavya Path, complemented by performances from 2,500 artists, culminating in a grand visual celebration on wheels.
State Tableaux Showcase Diverse Heritage
Among the most eye-catching displays is the tableau titled 'Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness', which powerfully highlights India's military prowess with models of Rafale jets and Akash missiles. Gujarat's contribution traces India's journey from 1906 to 1947 under the 'Vande Mataram' theme, anchored by a majestic statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Delhi's tableau honors the Prime Ministers' Museum while presenting the capital's evolving skyline, featuring landmarks like the new Parliament, Bharat Mandapam, Signature Bridge, and Yashobhoomi as emblems of national transformation.
Other states have vividly brought their unique landscapes and legacies to the forefront. Bihar's tableau follows the fascinating journey of makhana, from pond cultivation to culinary delight. "It took one month to create this entire piece," shared a carpenter involved in the construction. Himachal Pradesh pays tribute to its 1,203 gallantry award winners, and Punjab reflects the spiritual courage of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur through its artistic presentation.
Cultural and Technological Narratives Unfold
Ladakh showcases the engineering marvel of the Shyok Tunnel, Uttarakhand displays traditional instruments and utensils, and Jammu & Kashmir recreates the enchanting allure of a houseboat. Dancers from Tamil Nadu are set to perform the graceful mayilattam, or peacock dance. "A team of 17 members has traveled from Chennai to perform," mentioned Jyotsana, adjusting her costume with a smile. Parasmal Solanki from Rajasthan will also perform alongside his 16-member team.
Nagaland's tableau features an impressive hornbill figure. "We aim to raise awareness about the Hornbill Festival," explained Yangerla, a folk dancer. Jharkhand's display highlights the state's natural beauty with the goal of attracting tourists, as noted by state representative Neha Agarwal. Karnataka's tableau, 'From Millets to Microchips', narrates a story of holistic development through scenes depicting a farmer family with millets, silicon crystals, a robot, and a giant microchip, effectively linking agriculture with technological innovation.
Ministries Add Educational and Cultural Layers
Assam has transformed terracotta into visual poetry, while Chhattisgarh's tableau honors tribal heroes like Veer Gunda Dhur and Veer Narayan Singh. Union ministries have contributed their own narratives to the parade. The education tableau traces the evolution of India's knowledge systems, from Aryabhatta's concept of shunya (zero) to modern PM Shri schools. "All my team members and I are from different Kendriya Vidyalayas," shared Elix Singh, a Class XI student participant.
A distinctive tableau designed by filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali for the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting depicts the evolution of storytelling, from oral traditions to contemporary cinema. Nearby, the panchayati raj tableau emphasizes the SVAMITA scheme, highlighting grassroots governance.
A Unified Portrait of India
On Republic Day, these individual artistic pieces will converge to form a moving portrait of India, diverse in its expressions yet united in its purpose. The meticulous preparations at the Rashtriya Rangshala Camp underscore the dedication and creativity fueling this national celebration, promising a parade that honors both historical legacy and future aspirations.
