Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Tripura displayed their unique cultural legacies and successful wildlife conservation initiatives at the 76th Republic Day Parade.
Bihar’s tableau celebrated the historic event of Dharma Chakra Pravartana at the 76th Republic Day Parade on Sunday at the Kartavya Path. Dharma Chakra Pravartana, or “Turning of the Wheel of Law,” marks the event when Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
From ancient times, Bihar has been a land of wisdom, salvation, and harmony. The tableau featured Lord Buddha in a meditative Dharmachakra Mudra, symbolizing peace and harmony. This statue is located at the Ghora Katora reservoir in Rajgir, a site of growing tourism.
The tableau also included a representation of the sacred Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and the ancient ruins of Nalanda University, established in 427 CE by Emperor Kumaragupta. The world’s first residential university, Nalanda was a hub of knowledge for over 800 years, attracting scholars from China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, and beyond.
An LED screen on the tableau displayed the newly constructed International Nalanda University, showcasing the carbon-neutral and net-zero campus design, which aligns with modern sustainability goals.
Madhya Pradesh’s tableau highlighted the successful reintroduction of cheetahs in the state. In 2022, India launched the cheetah reintroduction program, with Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park chosen as the habitat for these majestic animals.
Twenty-four cheetahs, including cubs, now roam freely at Kuno Park, marking the state’s transformation into the ‘Tiger State’ and ‘Cheetah State.’ The front of the tableau featured a pair of cheetahs and cubs, symbolizing the success of the conservation project. The middle section displayed the biodiversity of the park, with cheetahs, deer, monkeys, and other wildlife.
The rear section of the tableau highlighted a Cheeta Mitra training local residents, while forest personnel monitored the cheetahs from a watchtower. The tableau was accompanied by a performance of the local Lehangi dance by a traditional troupe.
Tripura’s tableau showcased the vibrant Kharchi Puja festival, an integral part of the state’s tribal culture. The festival, celebrated in July, involves the worship of 14 deities and features traditional dances, music, and handicrafts.
The first segment of the tableau used traditional bamboo-based art and modern technology. The second part featured the main altar housing the 14 deities, where the bamboo and cane temple was adorned with symbolic ornaments and integrated tribal architectural designs.
The final segment of the tableau reflected the ancient spirituality of Tripura combined with contemporary designs, embodying the spirit of unity and diversity.
Following Tripura’s tableau was Karnataka’s tableau, which celebrated the historic town of Lakkundi, located in the Gadag district.
The town, situated 70 kilometers from Hubli City, is renowned for its intricately carved temples, stepwells, and inscriptions from the Chalukya dynasty. The tableau also highlighted the exquisitely carved temples and ornate pillars of the Nanneswara temple.
The tableau depicted the architectural marvels and the region’s cultural legacy, showcasing its importance as a destination for history enthusiasts and tourists exploring Karnataka’s culturally rich heritage.
As India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on Sunday, people across the country immersed themselves in the spirit of patriotism. Cultural songs filled the air, and individuals were adorned in the tricolour, symbolizing unity and pride in the nation. The atmosphere was vibrant, as the entire country came together to honour its democratic values and the significance of the Constitution.
(ANI)
