CM Himanta Biswa Sarma lauds Assam’s Republic Day tableau at Kartavya Path

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on January 26, praised the state’s tableau at the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi, calling it a proud moment that celebrated Assam’s rich cultural heritage.

In a post on X, the chief minister said Assam’s tableau led the procession this year, marking a significant moment for the state. “A for Assam at Kartavya Path. From coming last to leading first, our tableau proudly led the procession this Republic Day. A moment that celebrates Assam’s rich culture, Asharikandi heritage and its place at the forefront of Bharat’s growth story,” Sarma wrote.

The Assam tableau, themed Aatmanirbhar Bharat, showcased Asharikandi village in Dhubri district, home to India’s largest cluster of traditional Assamese terracotta artisans. For over a century, generations of artisan families in the village have preserved the art of clay craftsmanship, sustaining livelihoods through indigenous skills and cultural traditions.

The front of the tableau featured a large terracotta doll holding earthen lamps arranged in a circular pattern, forming a striking visual centrepiece. The tractor portion was decorated with bamboo fencing, symbolising Assam’s bamboo heritage and its importance to the rural economy and sustainable development.

The trailer was designed as a Moyurponkhi boat, reflecting the state’s riverine identity. It depicted artisans shaping Hiramati (clay) into figures of gods and goddesses, highlighting both the creative process and the spiritual essence of the craft. A traditional pall (sail canvas) at the rear evoked Assam’s historic waterways that nurtured culture and trade.

Women artisans dressed in traditional mekhela chador accompanied the tableau, singing verses expressing pride in their land and craft, symbolising the journey of Asharikandi towards self-reliance and global recognition.

President Droupadi Murmu presided over the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, with President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen attending as chief guests.

(Inputs from ANI)