Bhubaneswar, Jan 29: Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday expressed happiness as the tableau of Odisha was adjudged as the best tableau in the Republic Day Parade this year in the Judges Choice category.

In a tweet, formerly known as Twitter, Pradhan said, " It is a matter of great pride and joy that Odisha’s tableau has been adjudged as the best tableau in the Republic Day Parade this year in the Judges Choice category."

"The tableau was indeed a visual delight that showcased the colours, culture and craftsmanship of Odisha in its full glory. Heartiest congratulations to all my sisters and brothers of Odisha," he added.

The Union Minister also congratulated all other prize-winning tableaus and marching contingents who participated on the occasion.

The tableau of Odisha showcased women empowerment in the state as well as its rich handicraft and handloom sector at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on Friday.

The central part of the tableau highlighted women’s involvement in the handicraft and handloom sector through live demonstrations and acknowledged women’s adaptation to technology by showing them engaging in cashless transactions and e-platform marketing.

A big umbrella on the tableau denoted the “whole-hearted” support of the central and state governments to the artisans under the “Viksit Bharat” programme.

The rear portion featured a heritage hut of Raghurajpur village, where women play a pivotal role in crafting Pattachitra and masks. The village’s transformation into an open museum signified the journey towards “Viksit Bharat”.

The “War Horse of Konark Temple” symbolised Odisha’s rapid progress in shaping a developed India.

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The divine elephant “Kandarpa Hasti” on the tableau symbolised the dedication of Odisha’s women to “Viksit Bharat”, paralleling the devotion of Gopis to Lord Sri Krishna.