After a long absence, Chandigarh is gearing up for an iconic return to Republic Day parade at Delhi’s Kartavya path in 2025. Union territory administration has announced an ambitious team “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” ( Golden India: Heritage and Development), to showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and further advancement.
Last time, Chandigarh’s tableau was witnessed in 2014 with a diorama inspired by Nek Chand’s Rock Garden. That opportunity itself came after a 13-year wait. Since then, repeated attempts to qualify for the parade have fallen short, making renewed effort particularly significant.
This year, the administration has adopted a proactive approach by collaborating with private sector experts to design and construct the diorama. A tender process has already been floated to identify the ideal creative partner.
The Republic Day parade is a prestigious platform for states, and union territories and gives the department to present unique tableaux reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of India. The rigorous selection process, conducted by the Ministry of Defence, includes six qualifying rounds.
According to a senior UT official quoted by Indian Express, Chandigarh’s proposal has already been submitted for approval. The diorama will celebrate the city’s distinctive heritage and modern development, highlighting elements like its globally renowned architecture, the iconic Rock Garden, eco-friendly cycling tracks, and the public bike-sharing system.
Chandigarh’s achievements in solar energy adoption will also feature prominently. “Chandigarh represents a blend of history and innovation. The tableau will honour this legacy while showcasing our progress in sustainable urban living”, said the officials.
The beauty and modernity of the city lies in its history. Le Corbusier, the architect of Chandigarh drew Inspiration from the town planning of the Indus Valley Civilization. Chandigarh was designed to embody a more dignified lifestyle to its residents. Its meticulously planned urban layout complemented by lush gardens and Cinery lanes continues to attract visitors from around the globe. The tableau aims to encapsulate this harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Chandigarh’s Journey to secure a spot in the Republic Day parade has been a mixed bag with repeated rejections.
In late 2023, the administration decided to skip the 2024 parade, opting instead to strategize for a stronger representation.
This renewed effort symbolizes more than just a chance it’s an opportunity for Chandigarh to shine on a national stage illustrating its journey from a post-independence architectural marvel to a sustainable city.