NEW DELHI: At least 30 colourful tableaux will roll down Kartavya Path during the Republic Day Parade on January 26, offering a vibrant glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage, freedom struggle and developmental achievements.
The tableaux will be showcased under the themes “Svatantrata Ka Mantr – Vande Mataram” and “Samrddhi Ka Mantr – Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, marking 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. The displays will reflect India’s journey from its struggle for freedom to its pursuit of self-reliance and prosperity.
Of the total tableaux, 17 will be presented by States and Union Territories, while 13 will be showcased by various central Ministries, Departments and Services. Several states will highlight their distinct cultural identities and development narratives. Assam’s tableau will depict Ashirakandi, the state’s renowned craft village, while Gujarat and Chhattisgarh will interpret the Vande Mataram theme. Maharashtra will showcase Ganeshotsav as a symbol of self-reliance, and West Bengal will highlight the state’s contribution to India’s freedom movement.
Blending tradition with innovation, Odisha’s tableau titled “Soil to Silicon” will reflect growth rooted in heritage, Tamil Nadu will highlight India’s rise as an electric vehicle manufacturing hub, and Kerala will showcase its Water Metro project along with 100 per cent digital governance initiatives. Nagaland’s tableau will present the Hornbill Festival, symbolising culture, tourism and self-reliance.
Among the central ministries, the Ministry of Culture’s tableau titled “Vande Mataram: The Soul-Cry of a Nation” will anchor the central theme of the parade. The Department of Military Affairs will present a Tri-Services tableau on Operation Sindoor, highlighting jointness among the armed forces. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will display a floral tableau commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram.
The tableaux will be accompanied by cultural performances by around 2,500 artists, adding colour and rhythm to the Republic Day Parade 2026 and reinforcing the message of unity in diversity.
This year, the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will attend the Republic Day celebrations as the Chief Guests.
