Republic Day Parade 2025: How Are Tableaux Selected?

Republic Day Parade is not complete without the show of tableaux of different states and ministeries. However, not all states and UTs get to participate in the parade. Every year, a limited number of "State Governments/UT Administrations/Central/Ministries/Departments" present their tableaux to the Republic Day parade, according to a Ministry of Defense (MoD) circular of October 30, 2023. 

Interested parties must submit a concept note and design blueprints to the MoD as the first step in the demanding application procedure. Submissions for participation in this year's parade were due on November 10, 2023.

Selection Process for Republic Day Tableaux Parade

A group of specialists established by the MoD, which includes well-known figures in art, culture, painting, sculpture, music, architecture, choreography, and more, reviews the tableaux suggestions received. The selection procedure is carried out in stages.

Stage 1: Evaluation of Design Sketches and Proposals

• The Committee reviews design sketches or blueprints and initial proposals.
• Official representatives of participants discuss their designs with the Committee.
• The Committee may suggest changes to improve the proposals.
• Some proposals might be rejected at this stage.

Stage 2: Assessment of 3D Models

• The Committee evaluates three-dimensional models of the proposals.
• If satisfied with the model, the Committee approves it for construction.
• The Committee may recommend additional modifications before finalizing the selection.

Final Authority of the Committee

• The process encourages collaboration but gives the Committee the final decision-making power.
• The Committee can mandate changes it deems necessary for any tableau.

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What is the Selection Criteria?

According to the MoD document, "a number of factors, such as visual appeal, impact on the masses, idea/theme of the tableaux, degree of detailing involved in the tableaux, the music accompanying the tableaux, local artists used, etc., are taken into consideration when making a selection."

Every year, the MoD develops a broad theme that allows contestants to highlight aspects of their state, UT, or department in their tableaux. Recent themes have included "Bharat: Loktantra ki Matrika" (India: the Mother of Democracy) and "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).

Tableaux Design Guidelines

The Defense Ministry also provides the fundamental rules about what should or can be included in all tableaux. The participating entities are required to use "young qualified designers from renowned institutions," electronic display walls for a bright display of images or content, robotics or mechatronics for moving elements, 3D printing for some elements, augmented or virtual reality, and special effects to enhance the tableaux's optics and visual effects. Tableaux that adhere to these rules are given preference over others.

Importantly, eco-friendly materials must be used in their construction, and the tableaux of two distinct states and UTs must not be very identical.