How Did Rajasthan's Tableau Win the Popular Choice Award at the Republic Day Parade?
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Jaipur, Jan 29 (NationPress) The tableau from Rajasthan that was featured during the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi for the 77th Republic Day has earned the Popular Choice Award, sharing this prestigious recognition with tableaux from Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.
The award was presented on Friday in New Delhi by Praveen Gupta, Rajasthan’s Additional Chief Secretary for Tourism, Art, Literature, and Culture, during a ceremony held at the Defence Institute in Mahipalpur.
Praveen Gupta remarked that the Rajasthan tableau, which drew inspiration from the age-old Usta art of Bikaner, marked a significant achievement in the Republic Day Parade 2026 by clinching the third position in the Popular Choice category.
This ranking was determined through a nationwide public vote conducted on the 'MyGov platform', with Gujarat taking the top spot, followed by Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan securing third.
Titled “The Golden Touch of the Desert,” the Rajasthan tableau was displayed by the Rajasthan Department of Art, Literature, and Culture. It captivated audiences with the stunning golden Usta art from Bikaner, earning widespread acclaim for its intricate craftsmanship, royal heritage, and rich cultural symbolism.
The tableau vividly illustrated the journey from the sands of Rajasthan to Kartavya Path, powerfully emphasizing how India's traditional arts remain a profound source of cultural pride, self-reliance, and soft power.
The enthusiastic public response highlighted that the authentic essence of India is deeply rooted in its rich heritage, skilled artisans, and vibrant cultural traditions.
The triumph of the Rajasthan tableau is viewed as a point of pride for the state and a tribute to the artisans of Bikaner, whose traditional artistry has gained national and international recognition on one of the country’s most esteemed platforms.