Assam proudly opened the grand procession of state and union territory tableaus at India’s Republic Day Parade this year, as the state’s beautifully designed float featuring ancient terracotta craftsmanship from Asharikandi village took the first position on Kartavya Path in New Delhi.
The tableau highlighted Assam’s rich cultural heritage through the lens of traditional clay art, bringing national attention to the centuries-old terracotta tradition of Asharikandi in Dhubri district. With massive deity figures, earthen lamps, bamboo fencing, and a striking Moyurponkhi boat display, the float became one of the most talked-about cultural showcases of the parade.
The moment was celebrated across Assam, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma calling it a proud shift from “last to first,” underlining how the state’s cultural identity and economic progress are increasingly being recognised on the national stage.
Assam Opens the Republic Day Tableau Procession on Kartavya Path
The Republic Day Parade tableaus are among the biggest attractions every year, representing India’s diversity through art, innovation, history, and culture. This year, Assam’s tableau led the procession of 17 state and union territory displays, giving the Northeast state a prestigious spotlight at the beginning of the cultural segment.
For Assam, leading the parade is not just about position it is a symbol of representation, pride, and recognition. It reflects how India’s traditional arts and regional stories are gaining greater appreciation at national events.
As the float rolled down Kartavya Path, it instantly grabbed attention with its strong visuals and unique theme rooted in the soil of rural Assam.
Terracotta Craft of Asharikandi Village Becomes the Star Theme
The biggest highlight of Assam’s float was its focus on the ancient terracotta craft of Asharikandi village, located in Dhubri district.
Asharikandi is known for its distinct clay artistry, especially terracotta sculptures shaped by skilled local artisans. The craft is not only a traditional livelihood for many families but also a cultural identity passed down through generations.
By selecting Asharikandi terracotta as the core theme, Assam presented a story of:
- heritage and tradition
- rural craftsmanship
- artistic excellence
- cultural continuity
- pride in handmade Indian products
The tableau made it clear that true Indian beauty is not always found in big cities it often lives in villages where art is created with patience, skill, and cultural memory.
Inside Assam’s Tableau: Deity Figures, Earthen Lamps and Bamboo Details
Assam’s tableau carried multiple cultural elements that reflected both spiritual identity and everyday tradition.
According to the provided extract, the float featured:
- Massive terracotta deity figures
- A central doll-style figure supported by earthen lamps
- Traditional bamboo fencing
- A special Moyurponkhi boat trailer
Together, these components gave the tableau a powerful Assamese identity. The use of terracotta symbols and bamboo elements also highlighted how Assam’s culture remains closely connected to nature and eco-friendly materials.
For many viewers, the combination of clay craftsmanship and cultural storytelling made the display feel authentic and deeply rooted.
Moyurponkhi Boat Display Adds a Strong Assamese Touch
One of the standout attractions on the tableau was the Moyurponkhi boat trailer, a design that instantly reminded people of Assam’s river-based life and heritage.
Assam’s identity has long been shaped by its waterways, folk stories, and regional traditions. Including the boat element brought forward a sense of movement, history, and Assamese lifestyle making the tableau more than just a craft display.
It represented:
- Assam’s cultural rhythm
- traditional aesthetics
- pride in local design symbols
- connection between people, rivers, and heritage
This unique touch made the float visually rich and emotionally meaningful for those familiar with Assam’s culture.
Linked to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ Theme: Self-Reliant India Through Local Craft
Assam’s tableau was also connected to the wider national theme of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India).
By highlighting terracotta craftsmanship, the float showcased how traditional Indian arts can contribute to self-reliance through:
- local entrepreneurship
- handmade products
- skill development
- sustainable livelihoods
- cultural tourism and exports
Terracotta craft is a perfect example of an indigenous industry that can grow with modern support while staying true to its roots.
The message was clear: building a stronger India doesn’t only come from high-tech innovation it also comes from uplifting local artisans and protecting heritage industries.
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Celebrates the Lead Spot: “From Last to First”
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma celebrated the moment as a proud achievement for the state. As per the extract, he described the lead position as a transformation a shift from “last to first.”
His message reflected:
- Assam’s rising recognition
- growing confidence in the state’s cultural depth
- improved national presence of the Northeast
- pride in Assam’s economic progress and identity
For many people across Assam, the moment felt like a breakthrough showing the country that Assam’s traditions and creative strength deserve a place at the front.
Asharikandi’s Hiramati Clay Craft Earned GI Tag in March 2024
Another major point connected to this story is that the village’s famous clay craft known in the extract as Hiramati clay craft received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in March 2024.
A GI tag is important because it provides formal recognition and protection to traditional products tied to a specific region. It also helps in increasing the market value and global awareness of the craft.
For local artisans, this recognition can open new doors through:
- stronger branding
- better product identity
- higher demand and visibility
- improved income opportunities
- support for craft preservation
The GI tag adds further meaning to Assam’s Republic Day tableau, as it reflects a tradition that has official national recognition and strong cultural value.
Why Assam’s Tableau Moment Matters Beyond the Parade
While the Republic Day Parade is an annual celebration, moments like Assam’s lead tableau can create long-term impact.
This spotlight may help in:
1) Boosting Cultural Tourism
Many people may now become curious about Asharikandi village, inspiring travel and tourism interest in Dhubri district.
2) Supporting Artisan Communities
Greater national exposure can lead to better demand for terracotta products and increased opportunities for local artisans.
3) Strengthening the Northeast’s Representation
Assam leading the tableau section sends a strong message that the Northeast is an important cultural pillar of India’s identity.
4) Encouraging Youth to Value Heritage
Young audiences watching the parade may begin to appreciate traditional crafts as careers, industries, and sources of pride.
A Celebration of Assam’s Living Heritage
Assam’s terracotta tradition is not something locked in a museum it is living art that continues to evolve through skilled hands.
This tableau was not only about statues, lamps, and boats. It was about the people behind the craft the artists, families, and communities who keep heritage alive through daily dedication.
By placing Assam’s terracotta art at the front of the Republic Day procession, India honoured a story that represents:
- skill
- culture
- sustainability
- tradition
- self-reliance
It was a reminder that India’s strength lies in its diversity and in its ability to celebrate every corner of the country with equal pride.
Assam’s Clay Craft Makes a National Statement
Assam’s Republic Day tableau leading the parade on Kartavya Path is a proud cultural moment not only for the state, but for the entire country. By showcasing the terracotta craft of Asharikandi village, Assam brought forward the beauty of Indian handmade traditions in a powerful way.
From the massive deity figures and earthen lamps to bamboo fencing and the Moyurponkhi boat display, the float captured Assam’s essence beautifully while aligning with the theme of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
With the added pride of Asharikandi’s GI-tagged Hiramati clay craft, this moment marks a rising chapter for Assam where heritage and progress walk together right at the front of India’s biggest national parade.
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