Patna: Bihar’s rich tradition of knowledge and peace was on full display during the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, as the state’s tableau captivated spectators. Featuring a striking depiction of Lord Buddha, the sacred Bodhi tree, and the ruins of ancient Nalanda University, the tableau was met with resounding applause as it advanced from Vijay Chowk.
As the tableau reached the main stage, an announcement highlighted its significance: “This is the tableau of Bihar, celebrating the state’s ancient heritage of knowledge and peace. Bihar has been a land of knowledge since time immemorial.” The announcement further emphasized Bihar’s global revival as a center of learning with the inauguration of the new International Nalanda University by the Prime Minister.
The depiction of Lord Buddha, seated in a meditative Dharma Chakra posture beneath the sacred Bodhi tree, symbolized the spread of knowledge and peace from Bihar to the world. The tableau also showcased the iconic ruins of ancient Nalanda University, once a global hub for learning that attracted students from countries such as China, Japan, and Central Asia.
The statue of Lord Buddha featured in the tableau represents the 70-foot-tall sculpture at the Ghora Katora reservoir in Rajgir, inaugurated in 2018 as part of Bihar’s eco-tourism initiatives. This statue, carved from a single stone, has become a major attraction for tourists, reflecting the state’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
The tableau’s wall paintings further highlighted Bihar’s ancient glory, weaving together its cultural and intellectual legacy. The ruins of Nalanda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolize India’s historical contributions to education, while the Bihar government’s conservation efforts continue to restore its past splendor.
The newly constructed Nalanda University, located in Rajgir, was inaugurated on June 19, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the presence of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. This modern institution reaffirms Bihar’s status as a global knowledge hub, carrying forward the legacy of the ancient university.
Spectators, including foreign dignitaries, eagerly captured the tableau on their cameras, underscoring its universal appeal. As Bihar’s tableau passed, it left an indelible impression, celebrating the state’s enduring heritage of knowledge and peace.
