Patna: Preparations have entered their final phase for the state-level Republic Day celebrations to be held at Gandhi Maidan in Patna on January 26, with officials confirming that 13 tableaux from different government departments will roll out during the parade.
The tableaux are expected to present a blend of Bihar’s cultural heritage, development initiatives and social messaging. The centrepiece of this year’s display will be the tableau of Punauradham Temple, believed to be the birthplace of Sita, in Sitamarhi.
Officials said the Punauradham tableau would project Bihar’s spiritual identity on a wider stage, highlighting the religious and cultural significance of the site. The state government is investing around Rs 882 crore to develop Punauradham as a major cultural and spiritual tourism hub, a move officials describe as a potential turning point for religious tourism in Bihar.
Among other major attractions will be the transport department’s tableau built around the theme “Women Power, National Power”, featuring women drivers operating pink buses. The display aims to underline the state’s focus on women’s empowerment, employment and safer public transport.
The art and culture department’s tableau, themed “From Tradition to Preservation: The Continuous Journey of Artists”, will trace Bihar’s folk traditions and efforts to preserve its artistic heritage. Other tableaux will focus on governance and development priorities, including the law department’s message linking a clean environment with a strong nation, and the energy department’s emphasis on green power through the Kajra solar power and battery storage system project.
The cooperative department will highlight rural economic strengthening under the theme “Developed PACS, Developed Bihar”, while the Bihar Education Project’s tableau will promote “Safe Schools, Advanced Education, Bright Future”. The industries department will showcase industrial potential with “Prosperous Industries, Empowered Bihar”, and the prohibition, excise and registration department will carry a social message with “Drug-Free Bihar, Empowered Families”.
Meanwhile, rehearsals for the parade have begun at Gandhi Maidan, with contingents braving biting cold and dense fog. Around 20 contingents, including male and female battalions of the Bihar Police and paramilitary forces, are taking part in the practice sessions. Officials said a full dress rehearsal is scheduled for January 24, ahead of the main celebrations.
