Assam tableau shows terracotta craft, Minister Sonowal gives standing ovation
The 77th Republic Day parade, held on January 26, was a grand affair, with tableaux from various states and ministries showcasing the rich cultural heritage and diversity of India. Among the many impressive tableaux on display, the one from Assam stood out for its unique representation of the state’s terracotta craft. The tableau, which highlighted the traditional craft of Asharikandi village in Assam, received a standing ovation from Union Minister and former Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal as it passed the main dais.
The Republic Day parade is an annual event that celebrates the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950. The event is marked by a grand parade, which features tableaux from various states and ministries, showcasing their cultural heritage, achievements, and contributions to the country. This year’s parade was special, as it marked the 77th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, and the themes centered on ‘150 years of Vande Mataram’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
The Assam tableau was a highlight of the parade, with its vibrant colors and intricate designs showcasing the traditional terracotta craft of Asharikandi village. The village, located in the Dhubri district of Assam, is known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful terracotta items, including pots, vases, and other decorative pieces. The tableau featured a replica of a traditional Assamese house, adorned with terracotta items, and a group of artisans engaged in the craft.
As the tableau passed the main dais, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who was seated among the dignitaries, stood up to applaud the impressive display. Sonowal, who is a former Chief Minister of Assam, was visibly moved by the representation of his home state’s rich cultural heritage. His standing ovation was a testament to the pride and appreciation he has for the traditional crafts of Assam.
The terracotta craft of Asharikandi village is a significant part of Assam’s cultural heritage, and the tableau’s representation of this craft was a fitting tribute to the state’s rich tradition. The craft, which has been passed down through generations, is not only a source of income for the artisans but also an important part of the state’s cultural identity.
The Assam tableau was not the only one to impress the audience, as tableaux from other states and ministries also showcased their unique cultural heritage and achievements. The themes of ‘150 years of Vande Mataram’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ were woven into the tableaux, highlighting the country’s progress and self-reliance.
The ‘150 years of Vande Mataram’ theme was a tribute to the iconic song, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, which has become a symbol of Indian nationalism. The song, which was first published in 1876, has been an inspiration to generations of Indians, and its 150th anniversary was celebrated through various events and initiatives across the country.
The ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ theme, on the other hand, highlighted the country’s progress towards self-reliance and independence. The theme was a reflection of the government’s initiatives to promote indigenous industries, reduce dependence on foreign imports, and encourage entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Republic Day parade was a grand success, with the tableaux from various states and ministries showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. The Assam tableau, with its unique representation of the terracotta craft of Asharikandi village, was a highlight of the parade, and the standing ovation from Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal was a testament to the pride and appreciation for the state’s traditional crafts.
To watch the full Republic Day parade, including the Assam tableau, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch
News Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch
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