At the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path, Gujarat’s tableau highlighted the theme “Swatantrata Ka Mantra: Vande Mataram” by presenting the evolution of the Indian Flag. The tableau, a major attraction at the parade, depicted the journey, evolution, and historical significance of the Tricolour.
The tableau narrated the story of the flag inscribed with ‘Vande Mataram’ by Madam Bhikaiji Cama, alongside Gujarati revolutionaries Shyamji Krishna Varma and Sardarsinhji Rana, Mahatma Gandhi’s swadeshi message through the charkha, and the essence of today’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign. It showcased Madam Cama holding the ‘Vande Mataram’-inscribed flag that she unfurled in Paris in 1907, symbolizing a significant moment in history.
The background section of the tableau illustrated the making of the National Flag, its evolution since 1906, and pivotal events like the flag hoisting with ‘Vande Mataram’ during the boycott of foreign goods. The tableau also depicted key moments in India’s freedom struggle, culminating in the approval of the tricolour with the Dharma Chakra at its center by the Constituent Assembly in 1947.
In a tribute to the freedom fighters, the tableau featured a sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi promoting Swadeshi through the charkha, accompanied by a large Dharma Chakra. The performance by artists to the tune of ‘Kasumbi No Rang’ added patriotic fervor to the tableau, celebrating the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism.
A total of 30 tableaux were showcased at the Republic Day parade this year, representing 17 states, Union Territories, and various departments of the Central Government. The cultural performances on Kartavya Path involved around 2,500 artists, with nearly 10,000 special guests from across the country in attendance.
