The Center has selected the Odisha tableau to march in the Republic Day parade on January 26 in New Delhi.
The selection committee gave the model, which focused on the legacy crafts of Raghurajpur and women’s empowerment, high marks. The decision has been praised in a letter from the Ministry of Defence to the Chief Secretary of Odisha.
The tableau would combine the artistic talent of Odisha with the spirit of Puri’s historic village, Raghurajpur.
The Republic day parade on January 26 will feature the tableau rolling along Kartavya Path.
“It is a matter of pleasure for all that the Odisha tableau found place in the Republic day event after a gap of three years. The tableau showcased the women empowerment and Kandarpa Haathi (elephant) which is a symbol of progress. Ragurajpur village, wals and patta chitra are also displayed in the back side of the tableau,” said Gajendra Sahu, eminent painter and in-charge of the design and development of tableau.
The tableau tells the tale of a craft hamlet that attracted tourists from all over the world with its Pattachitra, wooden carvings, painting on bottles, and other artistic creations.