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Rajasthan's Usta Art Tableau Steals Show at 77th Republic Day Parade

Rajasthan's cultural tableau captivated spectators at the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path. It brilliantly showcased Bikaner's renowned Usta art, a traditional gold-inlay craft with a Geographical Indication tag. The display featured a rotating statue of a Ravanahatta player, ornate artifacts, and a symbolic camel, brought to life by Gair folk dancers. The tableau celebrated the art form's royal Mughal-era origins and its distinctive regional identity.

Key Points: Rajasthan's Usta Art Tableau Highlights Republic Day Parade

  • Showcased GI-tagged Usta art from Bikaner
  • Featured 13-foot rotating Ravanahatta statue
  • Included dynamic Gair folk dance performance
  • Highlighted traditional craftsmanship and desert symbolism
2 min read

77th Republic Day: Rajasthan's cultural tableau emerges as crowd-puller on Kartavya Path

Rajasthan's cultural tableau, featuring Bikaner's GI-tagged Usta art and Gair folk dance, was a major attraction at the 77th Republic Day parade in Delhi.

"a vibrant confluence of traditional art, folk culture, and royal heritage - Rajasthan Tableau Description"

Jaipur, Jan 26

Rajasthan's tableau emerged as one of the major attractions at the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path in Delhi on Monday, as the nation celebrated its 77th Republic Day.

Based on the globally renowned Usta art of Bikaner, the tableau captivated spectators with its exceptional craftsmanship, cultural richness, and vibrant visual presentation.

The front section of the tableau featured a 180-degree rotating statue of an artist playing the Ravanahatta, one of Rajasthan's oldest and most iconic folk instruments.

On both sides, beautifully decorated surahis (water pitchers), flasks, and lamps adorned with Usta art were displayed in ornate frames, forming a striking visual ensemble. This portion of the tableau rose to a height of nearly 13 feet.

The trailer section showcased a rotating traditional flask embellished with Usta art, along with detailed scenes of artisans engaged in handicraft work, highlighting the living traditions and craftsmanship associated with the art form.

At the rear, a large camel and camel rider statue symbolised Rajasthan's desert landscape and vibrant folk life.

The arches on both sides were decorated with intricate leafy gold work, further enhancing the grandeur and visual appeal of the display.

Adding to the spectacle, artists performing the Gair folk dance around the tableau brought Rajasthan's cultural identity to life, creating a dynamic blend of movement, music, and tradition.

Overall, the tableau presented a vibrant confluence of traditional art, folk culture, and royal heritage, earning widespread appreciation from spectators and dignitaries.

Usta art is a traditional royal gold-inlay craft originally practised on camel hide.

Believed to have originated in Iran, the art developed during the Mughal period and reached Bikaner during the reign of Maharaja Rai Singh, where local artisans gave it a distinctive regional identity.

The craft uses 24-carat gold leaf and natural pigments and has now expanded to wood, marble, glass, and wall decor.

Bikaner's Usta art has also received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising its authenticity, heritage value, and cultural significance.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The rotating Ravanahatta statue is such a creative idea! It's heartening to see ancient folk instruments being celebrated. My grandfather used to talk about hearing it played in village fairs. This tableau wasn't just a show, it was a story.
D
David E
Watching from overseas and feeling incredibly nostalgic. The craftsmanship described is astounding. The GI tag for Usta art is crucial—it protects the artisans' legacy. Hope this leads to more sustainable livelihoods for those keeping this heritage alive.
A
Aman W
While the tableau was beautiful, I do wish the commentary during the parade spent more time explaining the history and significance of Usta art to the common viewer. Many just see the glitter, not the generations of skill behind it.
S
Shreya B
Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Jaipur... and now Bikaner's art on Kartavya Path! The camel rider at the back is the perfect touch. Rajasthan's tableau always tells a complete story—from desert life to royal crafts. Simply brilliant!
K
Karthik V
The fusion of history is fascinating. An art form from Iran, refined in the Mughal era, and given a unique identity in Bikaner. That's the story of India in a nutshell. Our culture is a beautiful tapestry woven from many threads.

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