Communal amity, cultural diversity -- reigning themes on R Day
Communal amity and cultural diversity were vividly depicted in the colourful Republic Day tableaux of various states including Gujarat, which showcased Buddhist heritage and its message of non-violence.
The state's tableau depicted a replica of the 4th century Buddha statue found in Devni Mori, a stone edict of King Ashoka and Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang.
Various mudras and symbols found in Vadnagar were also on the tableau which rolled down the majestic Rajpath to the tunes of "Buddham Sharanam Gachhami" resonating the air.
"Gujarat's Buddhist heritage is a strong articulation of non-violence and universal brotherhood," read the commentator while the tableau passed in front of President Pratibha Patil, her Indonesian counterpart Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
The religious harmony was also the theme of tableaux of Bihar, Delhi and Tripura.
Delhi's tableau gave a kaleidoscopic view of the capital's rich cultural and religious heritage with its depiction of the four major religious communities and theBahai temple taking the centre stage.
The classical Kathak music with dancers performing against the backdrop of the Old Fort complemented the vibrant mood.
Bihar's tableau depicted the 17th century architectural marvel of Maner Sharif in Patna, the mausoleum of Sufi Saint Makhdoom Daulat.
Tripura gave a glimpse of Kharchi or the worship of earth, a festival on community harmony and integration during which 14 tribal Gods are worshipped to acquire universality.
