The tableau from Madhya Pradesh showcased the vigilant rule of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, her spiritual strength, and her ideas on women’s empowerment.

Madhya Pradesh: The tableau from Madhya Pradesh in the Republic Day parade on Delhi’s Rajpath emphasized women’s empowerment. Its theme was to showcase how women rooted in tradition can become great leaders and serve as inspiring examples of empowerment for their peers.

The tableau featured a large statue of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, depicted wearing a simple saree and holding a ‘Shivalinga’ (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva). This symbolized her spiritual strength, the importance of good governance, and her unwavering dedication to preserving the country’s heritage during British rule. The tableau also showed Rani Ahilyabai wearing a saree and riding a horse, conveying the message that traditions are meant to empower women, not restrict them. This highlighted her strength and vigilant leadership. It included models of the historical temples of Maheshwar, along with priests in saffron robes, showcasing the state’s rich cultural values.

Folk artists dancing to Malvi tunes further enhanced the overall presentation from the “Heart of India.”