Featuring representations of ‘Samudra Manthan’, ‘Amrit Kalash’, and holy figures bathing at the Sangam banks, Uttar Pradesh’s Republic Day tableau showcased the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, illustrating a symbolic merging of ‘virasat’ and ‘vikas’.
The float received applause from the audience as it moved along the Kartavya Path here during the ceremonial parade on Sunday.
Known as one of the largest assemblies of people on the planet, Maha Kumbh 2025 started on January 13 and will peak on February 26.
The 76th Republic Day celebrations center around the 75th anniversary of the Constitution, with the tableaux theme being ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’.
The tableau of Uttar Pradesh highlights the magnificence of Maha Kumbh 2025, illustrating a symbolic ‘Sangam’ of ‘virasat’ and ‘vikas’.
At the forefront of the display is a striking replica of the ’Amrit Kalash’ angled forward, representing the movement of the holy ’Amritdhara’. Around it, sages and holy figures are shown blowing conch shells, conducting ‘snan’ at the Sangam, and meditating, as worshippers bathe in the sacred waters of the merger of Ganga, Yamuna, and the legendary Saraswati.
In the trailer’s panel, the ‘akharas’ and worshippers heading for the ‘Amrit snan’ are illustrated through murals and LED displays, based on a description of the tableau provided earlier by Defence Ministry officials.
At its essence, the legendary story of ‘Samudra Manthan’ has been richly illustrated, representing the deep historical and cultural importance of the Maha Kumbh. It mentioned that on its reverse side, 14 gems, which surfaced from the ocean’s turmoil, have been illustrated.
A group of performers in traditional costumes paraded as someone blew a conch and a few others played the ‘damru’, accompanying the state tableau. The Maha Kumbh takes place every 12 years in Prayagraj.
Emphasizing the strong technological and digital readiness for Maha Kumbh, the tableau additionally features the advanced Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) aimed at effective security and crowd control during the Kumbh.