Panaji, January 26, 2025: The Goa State Tableaux was proudly presented at the 76th Republic Day parade held at Katravyapath, New Delhi, today. The tableau, on the theme “Swarnim Bharat, Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India, Heritage, and Development), celebrated Goa’s rich culture, musical heritage, and progress through vibrant live performances of music and dance.
Conceptualised under the Department of Information and Publicity, Government of Goa, it was met with rousing applause and a standing ovation from the spectators.
At the forefront of the tableau, a temple facade adorned with Kavi art, a distinctive mural tradition of Goa, captured the essence of the State’s artistic heritage. This intricate style, created with reddish-brown pigments derived from laterite soil on a white lime base, reflects Goa’s cultural roots, depicting scenes from nature, Hindu mythology, and village life. Recognized nationally, Kavi art has even earned praise from the Prime Minister for preserving this traditional craft. Atop the temple, a traditional lady holding a Diwaj—a symbolic earthen lamp—embodied Goan cultural identity, purity, and ancestral traditions.
The trailer showcased the historic Fort Aguada Lighthouse, built in 1864, symbolizing Goa’s colonial legacy. It also highlighted Goa as a dream destination for weddings, offering luxurious and unique celebrations and a hotspot for iconic photoshoots. Additionally, the trailer featured Goa’s thriving water sports scene, which has propelled the State into a global hub for adventure tourism. Activities like speed boat rides, yacht cruises, parasailing, jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat rides, and scuba diving were prominently displayed, underscoring Goa’s vibrant tourism landscape.
The tableau also celebrated Goa’s rich musical and dance heritage, influenced by diverse regimes over centuries. Accompanied by the saxophone, dhol, and tasso, 19 performers presented traditional dance forms on either side of the tableau, set against the backdrop of a majestic arch.
The tableau was conceptualized and aesthetically designed by renowned Goan artist Shri Sushant alias Raja Khedekar from Ponda, who has previously created award-winning tableaux for the State. The performance team, led by Shri Dinesh Priolkar, included choreography by Mr. Nishad, costumes by Mrs. Sangeeta and Miss Avani Khedekar, and music composed by Dr. Saish Deshpande. A team of skilled artisans and fabricators, including Shri Pandurang Shet, Shri Suresh Varekar, Shri Vallabh Chari, Shri Pralhad Shilkar, and others contributed to the creation of this magnificent tableau.
This year, 16 states and Union Territories, along with six Union Ministries, presented tableaux showcasing India’s social, cultural, economic, and technological achievements. The Goa tableau stood out for its blend of tradition and modernity, symbolizing the State’s unique contribution to India’s diverse and prosperous future.
Following the parade, the Goa tableau will be on display at the Red Fort in New Delhi from January 26 to 31, 2025, as part of the Bharat Parv celebrations. Visitors will also be treated to daily cultural programs featuring Goan folk dances, offering a deeper glimpse into the State’s vibrant heritage.
The Republic Day parade highlights included a cultural pageant, a thrilling motorcycle display, and a spectacular fly-past, with the Goa tableau earning an enthusiastic response from Delhiites and spectators nationwide.