New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: After one-year absence, Odisha is set to make a grand return to the Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26.
The theme of the state tableau, “Soil to Silicon: Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Innovation”, perfectly complements the national emphasis on Vande Mataram and Atmanirbhar Bharat. It will highlight the journey of an ‘Atmanirbhar’ Odisha, seamlessly integrating the state’s agricultural roots, vibrant folk arts, and exquisite handicrafts with cutting-edge innovation and pioneering strides in semiconductor manufacturing.
Measuring 45 feet long, 14 feet wide, and 16 feet high, the tableau has been conceptualised and designed by artists Gajendra Sahoo and Kirti Maharana.
The front facade will emphasise women-led growth and Odisha’s contributions to India’s social and economic development. The central section will prominently display a semiconductor chip, representing technological advancement, alongside Koraput coffee, which highlights sustainable livelihoods and tribal agricultural excellence. Adding to the grandeur, a replica of Odisha’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iconic Konark Sun Temple, will be featured alongside two ornate idols of Lord Ganesh, illustrating the state’s centuries-old expertise in stone-carving and its continuity in contemporary times, the TOI reported, quoting officials of I&PR department.
The tableau will also be adorned with intricate Dokra metal craft (from districts like Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, and Rayagada), silver filigree (Rupa Tarakasi) from Cuttack, Pattachitra panels, and replicas of the wheels from the famous Rath Yatra. Two craftsmen each will demonstrate the key handicrafts, including stone-carving, weaving of Pipili applique work, and Sabai grass baskets, live during the parade.
A captivating highlight will be the lively performance of Chaiti Ghoda Nacha, a popular folk dance form, featuring 12 dancers on the float.
Currently, 45 artisans from Odisha are busy giving final touches to the tableau at Rashtriya Rangshala camp in Delhi Cantonment, the report added.
Odisha is among 17 states and Union Territories selected for the event, with a total of 30 tableaux expected to roll down Kartavya Path.
Past Record
Odisha’s tableau, showcasing women’s empowerment in Raghurajpur heritage village and a ‘Kandarpa Hati’, not only rolled on Kartavya Path during Republic Day parade in 2024 after a gap of three years, but also won the best tableau award in the state category. It was designed by Sahoo and Maharana.
Though Odisha could not make it to the selected list in 2025, the state’s artistes exhibited its colourful folk dance and music forms at the parade.
Odisha had won the second prize when it had participated last during the 71st Republic Day parade in New Delhi with a tableau on Rukuna Rath Yatra of Lingaraj Temple. It included a replica of the Lingaraj temple, Nandi (the bull) and the Rukuna Rath. Odissi artistes had also accompanied the tableau.
