Republic Day tableaux unveiled

A total of 18 tableaux that will roll down Rajpath at this year's Republic Day (Jan 26) parade were displayed here Wednesday.

Of them, 13 tableaux will be representing states while five others will be from the different ministries and government departments. Two more representing the navy and the air force will also participate.

"The tableaux will showcase India's military might, varied cultural diversity, development in science and technology and economic strength," said Dhananjay Mohanty, a spokesman of the defence ministry which organises the parade.

"Each tableau depicts its own story to portray themes ranging from heritage, culture, art and crafts, biotechnology, sustainable agriculture and environment," he added.

While states like Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan would be showcasing their popular dance forms, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra would be promoting the festivals of Pongal and Naradi Pornima (Coconut Festival) respectively.

The state of Assam will pay tribute to its iconic artiste Bhupen Hazarika and the tableau will depict his achievements in the field of cinema, music and culture and literature.

There will be no Delhi tableau at this years' Republic Day parade Jan 26 owing to a late submission of proposal. It had missed the parade in 2012 as well when the city celebrated its 100 years as national capital.

Last year's Delhi tableau portrayed the city's diverse culture owing to its inhabitants coming from different backgrounds and as the country's hub for performing and fine arts.