Bhubaneswar: The tableau from Odisha, showcasing women empowerment, the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur and the exquisite Pattachitra art, has won the first prize in Judges Choice category at this year’s Republic Day parade, the I & PR department informed on Monday.
The tableaus from Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have been adjudged second and third respectively. Sixteen states and Union territories had presented their tableaus at the parade.
However, in People’s Choice category Gujarat topped the list while Uttar Pradesh stood second and Andhra Pradesh came in third position.
The tableau of the Ministry of Culture was adjudged best in Judges’ choice category among ministries and departments in Marching Contingent from services.
Similarly, Delhi police women marching contingent became top in Best Marching Contingent from CAPFs/ Auxillary forces.
The central theme of Odisha tableau highlighted the integral role of women in the state’s handicraft and handloom sector. Through live demonstrations, it emphasized their active participation and showcased their adaptability to technology, featuring scenes of women engaging in cashless transactions and e-platform marketing.
A prominent feature of the tableau was a large umbrella symbolizing the comprehensive support extended by both the central and state governments to artisans under the “Vikshit Bharat” program. This initiative aims to foster development and progress in various sectors.
The rear portion of the tableau captured the essence of Raghurajpur village, featuring a heritage hut where women are pivotal in crafting Pattachitra (traditional paintings on cloth) and masks. The village’s transformation into an open museum served as a visual representation of the journey towards a “Vikshit Bharat.”
