Bilal Bashir Bhat | Onlykashmir.in News Desk
New Delhi: After a four-year hiatus, Jammu and Kashmir’s tableau made a powerful return to Kartavya Path, emerging as one of the most talked-about highlights of the 77th Republic Day Parade, and rekindling memories of its past dominance on the national stage.
The reappearance was especially significant as the Union Territory’s tableau had been absent from the parade in 2021 and for three consecutive years thereafter, barring its brief display in 2022. Last year too, the 76th Republic Day Parade passed without a J&K tableau, making this year’s presence both symbolic and momentous.
Once unveiled, the tableau commanded attention with a striking celebration of Kashmir’s cultural soul. A gleaming Samovar, crafted with intricate metalwork, formed the centrepiece, symbolising the region’s legacy of warmth and hospitality. It was flanked by Kani shawls, hand-knotted carpets, walnut wood carvings, and vibrant papier-mâché artefacts, each narrating centuries of refined craftsmanship.
Miniature paintings inspired by the classical Basohli school, alongside vivid saffron blossoms, highlighted the artistic and agricultural heritage that has earned Jammu and Kashmir global recognition.
The spectacle was elevated by live performances of Rabab, Santoor and flute, while folk dancers in traditional attire brought the tableau to life through energetic Rouf, Kud, Pahari, Bhadrawahi and Gujjar dances, offering a dynamic portrayal of the region’s cultural diversity and collective spirit.
The return also revived memories of J&K’s golden run at the Republic Day Parade, where its tableau clinched first place multiple times, in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2002—cementing its reputation as a consistent crowd-puller.
In preparation for the national event, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo had on January 14 flagged off the contingent of artists at K. L. Saigal Hall, Jammu, marking the formal send-off of the performers representing the Union Territory at the 2026 parade.
More than a display, Jammu and Kashmir’s tableau marked a cultural comeback, reaffirming its place in India’s Republic Day narrative with pride, artistry and renewed confidence.
YOU MAY ALSO READ
J&K Tableau Missing from Rajpath for the Third Consecutive Year
