For the First Time 100 Women Artists to Commence Republic Day Parade with Traditional Instruments

For the first time, 100 women artists in the costumes of their respective states will commence the parade on the themes, ‘Vikshit Bharat’ (Developed India) and ‘India: Mother of Democracy’ (Bharat: Loktantra Ki Jannee), playing conch shells, drums, and other traditional instruments. Additionally, for the first time, 1,500 women artists from 30 states will present folk and classical dances. Along with this, about 1,900 sarees from all the States will be displayed on the Kartavya path. This was informed by the Minister of State for Culture Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi. She was addressing a press conference regarding various cultural components of the Ministry of Culture during the Republic Week from 23^rd to 31^st January, at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. Shri. Govind Mohan, Secretary, Ministry of Culture; Smt. Uma Nanduri, Joint Secretary Culture, Smt. Amita Prasad Sarbhai, Joint Secretary of Culture, Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, and Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairperson of Sangeet Natak Academy were also present during the conference

. Shri Govind Mohan, in his opening comments, highlighted a move towards more inclusive representation. He stated, “Aligned with the government’s philosophy, we aim to strengthen the integration of cultural elements in the customary observance of Republic Day and Republic Week.

Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Academy, informed that the Republic Day parade always begins with the military band. However, this time, female artists will inaugurate the parade along with traditional musical instruments. These female artists have been practicing dance presentations for the past month.

Amita Prasad, Joint Secretary of the Union Culture Ministry, mentioned that the 75th Republic Day is starting with Parakram Diwas, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Red Fort premises. Programs will run for seven days at the Red Fort. The choice of this location is due to Netaji’s connections with the Red Fort.

Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, highlighted that the Ministry of Culture’s tableau theme this time is ‘Mother of Democracy.’ He mentioned that extensive research by the Ministry of Culture on the theme ‘Mother of Democracy’ is reflected in the artwork of the new Parliament building. The first trailer of the tableau will illustrate the adherence to democratic traditions since the Vedic period or earlier, featuring a replica of Ashoka’s inscription of Junagadh. He further added that we’ve showcased an image on our second tractor, depicting Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Chairman of the Drafting Committee, presenting the Constitution to Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Chairman of the Constitution Committee. Celebrating the 75th year of the Indian Republic, it’s apt to revisit this historic moment. Additionally, we have a unique presentation, likely being shown on Kartavya Path for the first time. The tableau’s uniqueness lies in presenting content through 3-D technology known as ‘anamorphic.’ It will depict the evolution of democracy, showcasing the transition from traditional ballots to EVMs.