Republic Day Tableau 2026, Meaning, List, Theme, Winners

Republic Day tableau is an important cultural feature of the Republic Day Parade showcasing India’s rich Culture, heritage, historical legacy, achievements and vision. 

On 26 January 2026, India celebrated its 77th Republic Day and the tableaux mainly focused on commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram and the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat

What is the Republic Day Tableau? 

Republic Day tableaux are thematic and artistic displays presented by States, Union Territories, and Central Ministries during the Republic Day Parade on 26 January at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. It visually represents India’s cultural heritage, historical legacy, constitutional values, social achievements, or future vision. Through art, models, music, and performers, each tableau communicates a distinct message.

Republic Day Tableau’s History in India

• Republic Day tableaus have been part of the parade since India became a republic in 1950.
• Early tableaus highlighted freedom fighters and national unity. 
• Over the years, the themes of the tableaus broadened to include culture, science, tribal heritage, environmental conservation, and various government initiatives.
  

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Republic Day Tableau 2026 Theme

The theme of the The 77th Republic Day tableaux centred around two main themes : “Svatantrata Ka Mantra – Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi Ka Mantra – Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.

• Swatantrata ka Mantra : Vande Mataram : Celebrating 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram (composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875).
• Samriddhi ka Mantra : Aatmanirbhar Bharat : Highlighting India’s journey toward self-reliance and economic prosperity.

Who decides the theme of  Republic Day Tableau 2026? 

The theme of the Republic Day Tableau is decided by the Ministry of Defence in consultation with other central agencies.

List of Republic Day Tableaux 2026 State and UT Wise and their Themes

This year, 30 tableaux were selected from various States, Union Territories, and Central Ministries-17 tableaux from States / Union Territories and 13 tableaux from Ministries / Departments / Services. Each tableau showcased the culture and progress of its region or sector.

Gujarat and Chhattisgarh focused on the theme of “Vande Mataram,” highlighting its role in strengthening national unity while Assam’s tableau featured Ashirakandi, a village known for its traditional crafts. Maharashtra presented Ganeshotsav, while West Bengal highlighted the state’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle.  The Department of Military Affairs presented the Tri-Services Tableau – showcasing  Victory of Operation Sindoor through Joint coordination of three forces. 

Republic Day Tableau 2026 Winners

• The winners of the Republic Day tableaux are decided by an expert jury constituted by the Ministry of Defence. 
• This jury includes eminent artists, cultural experts, architects, and senior government officials who evaluate the tableaux on the basis of adherence to the annual theme, creativity and innovation, visual appeal, clarity of message, and overall presentation. 
• In addition to the jury awards, a Popular Choice Award is also given, which is determined through public voting, usually conducted via the MyGov platform or other online and SMS-based mechanisms.

Republic Day Tableaux Selection Process 

• Republic Day Tableaux are selected through a two-stage selection by an expert committee under the Ministry of Defence.
• States, Union Territories, and various departments submit design sketches for their proposed tableaux. An expert committee evaluates these proposals. 
• This committee comprises experts in fields such as arts, culture, painting, sculpture, music, architecture, and choreography. 
• The selection involves two main phases : 
• First, the committee assesses initial sketches, suggesting modifications if needed. 
• Second, approved designs move to a 3D model stage for final selection. 

States not selected for the main parade can still display their tableaux at Bharat Parv. This alternative event takes place at the Red Fort from January 26-31.

Further, the government has finalized a rotational plan to ensure that every State and Union Territory gets an opportunity to present their tableaux at the Republic Day parade within a three-year cycle (2024-2026).

Republic Day Tableau 2026 Purpose 

• It highlights unity in diversity by showcasing traditions, languages, and lifestyles of different regions.
  
• It highlights progress in defense, technology, and social welfare (e.g., Space missions or Green energy).
• It brings rare folk arts, crafts, and historical stories into the national spotlight.
• It promotes awareness of government policies and national missions like Aatmanirbhar Bharat.