Bhubaneswar: In a celebration of India’s 75th Republic Day, the state of Odisha is set to make a triumphant return to the national stage with a tableau that highlights the pivotal role of women in socio-economic activities. After a three-year hiatus, Odisha’s tableau will roll down Kartavya Path in New Delhi, joining the grand spectacle of the Republic Day parade.
The parade, scheduled for Friday, will feature a total of 23 tableaux, with 17 representing states and Union Territories and six showcasing themes related to ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat – The Mother of Democracy.’
Odisha’s 45-ft long, 14-ft wide, and 16-ft high tableau is a testament to the global positioning of the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur in Puri district. The tableau sheds light on the artistic legacy of the village, particularly focusing on the exquisite ‘Pattachitra’ art and the entrepreneurial prowess of women artisans who have taken their handicrafts online.
The tableau comprises two key components. The first is a replica of a Kandarpa Hati, a popular Pattachitra design depicting Krishna Leela, where nine women are intricately entangled with each other to form the shape of an elephant. This representation symbolizes the indomitable grit, determination, skill, and talent of the women artists of Raghurajpur.
The second component of the tableau features real women artisans from Raghurajpur village in Puri, showcasing their dedication to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region. The tableau has been meticulously designed by eminent artists Gajendra Sahoo and Kirti Kishore Maharana, bringing to life the vibrant essence of Odisha’s artistic traditions.
To add a dynamic touch to the presentation, the Odisha tableau will be accompanied by Sambalpuri dancers during the Republic Day parade, providing a visual and cultural feast for spectators.
The theme chosen by Odisha not only celebrates the artistic heritage of the state but also emphasizes the significant role played by women in shaping and sustaining the socio-economic fabric of the region. By highlighting the success of Raghurajpur’s women artisans in the online marketplace, the tableau underscores the importance of empowering women and preserving traditional crafts in the digital age.
As Odisha takes center stage on the 75th Republic Day, the tableau serves as a beacon, illuminating the remarkable journey of women artisans and their contribution to the cultural and economic landscape of the nation. Through this vibrant display, Odisha invites the nation to appreciate the convergence of tradition and modernity, paying homage to India’s rich heritage on this auspicious occasion.
