In A First, Red Fort Set To Host Republic Day Cultural Extravaganza

18 January, New Delhi

For the first time, iconic Red Fort will turn into a ‘mini republic’ for three days with tableaux participating in the Republic Day parade will remain parked in its vast complex, performing hosts of cultural programmes.

Immediately after passing out from the Rajpath, tableaux of 16 states and nine central departments will head towards Lal Qila, which will be their home till January 28 evening.

The idea to hold cultural extravaganza originated from the Prime Minster’s office, officials in the Defence Ministry, which is the nodal ministry for the Republic Day main events, said, “The tableau will be presenting their cultural events more than what will be on the display at Rajpath. The southern states will showcase Pongal festival in their own way, while Ragoli Bihu will be presented by Assamese,” said the officials.

The cultural evenings will be open for the public, so that people, who could not make it to the parade at Rajpath are given chance to relive it at Red Fort, they said.

A special Garba dance from Gujarat will be main attraction during the cultural programmes to be held everyday from 1800 hrs to 2100 hrs with no need for any pass or ticket to enter the venue.

The extravaganza is jointly being held by the Ministry of Culture, National Cultural Centre of Bhopal and the Ministry of Defence.