The Union Minister of State for Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi announced a historic initiative for the upcoming Republic Day parade, revealing that 100 women artistes, adorned in the traditional attire of their respective states, will kick off the procession.
The minister was part of a press conference organised by Ministry of Culture at the National Media Centre to unveil plans for the 75th Republic Day tableau. The Secretary of the Union Ministry of Culture Govind Mohan, Dr. Sandhya Purecha, President of Sangeet Natak Academy, Amita Prasad, Joint Secretary of the Union Culture Ministry and other distinguished representatives were present during the press conference.
Playing conch shells, drums, and other traditional instruments, these artistes will set the tone for the themes ‘Vikshit Bharat’ (Developed India) and ‘India: Mother of Democracy’ (Bharat: Loktantra Ki Jannee). Additionally, 1,500 women artists from 30 states will showcase folk and classical dances, and around 1,900 sarees representing all states will be displayed along the duty path.
Meanwhile Govind Mohan emphasized over more inclusive representation in alignment with the government’s philosophy. He stated, “Government policies now involve a heightened presentation of our nation’s diverse culture.” He said that the focus on showcasing India’s diverse culture alongside its military capabilities is expected to make this cultural display a grander and more encompassing spectacle. The objective is to convey the message of “Unity in Diversity,” encapsulated in the motto ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’
Dr. Sandhya Purecha, President of Sangeet Natak Academy, shared that this Republic Day parade will witness a unique beginning as female artists, after a month of practice, will inaugurate the event with traditional musical instruments. The artistic presentations will mark a departure from the traditional military band commencement.
Amita Prasad, Joint Secretary of the Union Culture Ministry, provided insights into the ongoing Parakram Diwas, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 23 at the Red Fort premises. Special exhibitions, including ‘Anant Sutra’ paying homage to women’s power, are being organized at the Red Fort and Kartavyapath. A notable exhibition featuring a 150-year-old saree showcasing the Kota Panthi art form is also on display.
Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, highlighted the theme ‘Mother of Democracy’ for the Ministry of Culture’s tableau. The tableau will showcase the evolution of democracy, utilizing 3-D technology known as ‘anamorphic,’ and feature historic moments like Baba Saheb Ambedkar presenting the Constitution to Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
As the nation gears up for the 75th Republic Day, these innovative additions promise to make the celebration a truly memorable and culturally rich event.
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