It will be a proud moment for all Goans this Republic Day as their float, depicting Goa’s rich culture and progress, will feature in the grand pageantry as its tableau goes on the Kartavya Path on January 26, 2025. After a gap of two years, Goa’s float has been included in the prestigious parade, comprising 15 States and Union Territories and 11 Ministries/Departments of the Union Government, on Kartavya Path, which is watched by millions across the country. The theme for the parade is ‘Swarnim Bharat - Virasat aur Vikas’, which means ‘Golden India - Heritage and Development’.
The Goa tableau, displayed under the auspices of the Department of Information and Publicity, was shortlisted by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, New Delhi. The float was evaluated based on its concept, uniqueness and novelty, creative expression, and its ability to deliver a clear, communicable message. Presenting a striking balance between ‘Virasat’ and ‘Vikas’ was also a key criterion for selection, which Goa’s tableau, ‘Swarnim Goa - Virasat aur Vikas’, ably depicts.
“Designed, conceptualised and fabricated by artist Sushant Khedekar from Ponda, the float shows the intertwining of Goa’s culture with nature. This can be seen in the State’s traditions, which demonstrate reverence for the land, sea, and natural resources,” says the Director of the Department of Information and Publicity, Dipak Bandekar.
An essential feature of Goa’s cultural identity is the Diwaj, a unique earthen lamp that is an important part of the sacred Diwaja, a ritual procession observed by women. This will be a prominent depiction on the float. Other elements featured in the spectacular display include Goa’s artistic heritage - Kaavi Art, an ancient mural art form unique to Goa. This is a classic example of how Goa’s culture is influenced by Mother Nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, had applauded this art style, which is created using reddish-brown pigments derived from laterite soil on a white lime base to design patterns and motifs. The Goa Government, in fact, has even initiated the process to secure a GI (Geographic Indication) tag for Kaavi Art.
When you think of Goa, one cannot visualise it without its touristic attractions. The float includes elements of Goa’s tourism, which is a major driver of the State’s economy. Water sports, Goa as a destination for weddings, and the historic Fort Aguada Lighthouse are all features of the tableau.
In 2024, Goa’s tableau, ‘Viksit Bharat, Viksit Goa’, depicting Tapaloka Yog Kshetra, Goa’s marine life, and the Jal Jeevan Mission, was presented at the Bharat Parv celebrations at Red Fort in New Delhi.
