Tableau themed on “Vande Mataram – the Mantra of Freedom” highlights India’s first tribal digital museum, earns resounding applause from dignitaries and spectators
TFP Bureau, New Delhi, January 26, 2026: Chhattisgarh’s tableau emerged as one of the major highlights of the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, drawing widespread appreciation for its powerful depiction of tribal valour, sacrifice and cultural heritage. Based on the theme “Vande Mataram – the Mantra of Freedom”, the tableau showcased India’s first tribal digital museum and vividly brought to life the heroic saga of tribal leaders who played a crucial role in the freedom struggle.
As the tableau rolled past the saluting base, it received a warm and enthusiastic response from the Chief Guest, President of the European Council Mr Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ms Ursula von der Leyen, President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, who acknowledged the presentation with waves and applause. The audience lining Kartavya Path responded with thunderous claps, visibly moved by the compelling portrayal of tribal resistance against British rule.
The tableau presented a striking glimpse of the country’s first tribal digital museum, envisioned as a tribute to the immense contribution of tribal communities in India’s freedom movement. Through artistic design and storytelling, it highlighted the courage of tribal heroes who rose against unjust colonial laws and laid down their lives for the nation’s freedom.
Spectators were particularly captivated by the portrayal of legendary tribal leader Veer Gundadhur, a central figure of the historic Bhumkal Rebellion of 1910. A revered leader of the Dhurva community, Gundadhur united tribal groups across Bastar to resist exploitation and oppression. Symbols associated with the Bhumkal movement, such as mango branches and dried chillies, were prominently displayed on the tableau, symbolising unity, resistance and collective strength. The narrative also recalled how the rebellion was so formidable that the British administration had to summon troops from Nagpur, yet Gundadhur was never captured, remaining a symbol of defiance and resilience
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The rear portion of the tableau depicted Veer Narayan Singh, Chhattisgarh’s first martyr, shown riding a horse with a sword in hand. A champion of the poor during a devastating famine, Veer Narayan Singh emerged as a prominent figure in the First War of Independence in 1857. His depiction reinforced the enduring legacy of Chhattisgarh’s contribution to the national freedom movement.
Adding cultural vibrancy to the presentation, folk artists from Chhattisgarh performed the traditional Dhurwa community folk dance in front of the tableau, enriching the visual narrative with rhythmic movement and indigenous expression. Their performance highlighted the living cultural traditions that continue to preserve tribal history and identity.
The tribal digital museum, built at a cost of Rs 50 crore, has been conceptualised to connect present and future generations with the sacrifices and struggles of tribal ancestors. Spread across 14 thematic galleries, the museum features more than 650 sculptures that vividly depict major tribal uprisings during British rule. Through digital technology and immersive displays, it seeks to ensure that the stories of tribal heroes remain alive in the nation’s collective memory.
Together, the elements of the tableau stood as a powerful tribute to the unbreakable spirit, patriotism and determination of tribal communities. Chhattisgarh’s presentation not only celebrated its rich cultural heritage but also conveyed a strong message to India and the world about the pivotal role played by tribal heroes in the making of the nation, earning it one of the most memorable moments of the Republic Day parade.
