[In Pics] Odisha Tableau Blends Tradition With Innovation At Delhi Republic Day Parade

New Delhi: After one-year absence, Odisha made a grand return to the 77th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Monday.

Adopting the theme of “Soil to Silicon: Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Innovation”, the Odisha tableau highlighted the state’s cultural heritage and technological aspirations as it rolled on the Kartavya Path in the national capital.

It highlighted 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.

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Designed by artists Gajendra Sahoo and Kirti Maharana, the tableau measured 45 feet in length, 14 feet in width and 16 feet in height.

The central section displayed a semiconductor chip to reflect technological advancement, alongside Koraput coffee to underline sustainable livelihoods and the agricultural skills of tribal communities.

A replica of the Sun Temple was another key attraction. The tableau was further enhanced with Dokra craft elements and floral patterns inspired by Odisha’s silver filigree work. Pattachitra panels and replicas of the wheels associated with the Rath Yatra also adorned the tableau.

A captivating highlight will be the lively performance of Chaiti Ghoda Nacha, a popular folkdance form, featuring 12 dancers on the float.

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.