Twenty two Mahatma Gandhi-themed tableaux of states and central government departments will mark this year’s Republic Day parade, as a tribute to the father of the nation, reported PTI.
The event on Saturday, 26 Janaury, where South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest, will begin with the laying of wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The 22 tableaux will represent the developmental, cultural and historical themes of various state and central government departments, according to PTI. Some of the tableaux on cultural themes will have integrated folk dances, a Home Ministry office memorandum said.
Sixteen tableaux will be from the states and Union Territories, while six will be from various ministries and departments, reported ANI.
Delhi Tableaux
The Delhi tableau will display a theme of ‘Mahatma Gandhi and Delhi’ and show Gandhi’s association with the capital city and the Birla house, according to ANI. The tableau of Delhi will be taking the Rajpath after a gap of one year.
Arunachal Pradesh Tableau
‘Peace Within’ themed Arunachal Pradesh’s tableau shows a tribal Monpa placing flowers at Gandhi’s feet. It also shows the dancing Monpa tribe stressing on peace and cleanliness, reported ANI.
Jammu and Kashmir Tableau
‘Gandhi’s ray of hope – our composite culture,’ is Jammu and Kashmir’s tableau theme this year. The tableau showcases Gandhi along with his charkha and ethnic diversity of the Valley.
Uttar Pradesh Tableau
The Uttar Pradesh tableau will have ‘commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’ as its theme, with Gandhi at the Kashi Vidyapith.
Uttarakhand Tableau
The Uttarakhand tableau at the Republic Day parade will feature Kausani's Anasakti Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi had stayed in 1929. The tableau shows Gandhi writing his book 'Anasakti Yoga' at the ashram in the backdrop of mountains and deodar trees, reported PTI.
(With inputs from PTI and ANI)
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)