Chandigarh, 22 December 2024: After a 10-year hiatus, Chandigarh will grace the Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path in Delhi with a vibrant tableau celebrating its cultural heritage and modern innovations. The city is among 15 states and Union Territories whose proposals received approval from the Centre for the 2025 parade.
The last time Chandigarh’s tableau featured in the parade was in 2014, when it showcased architectural marvels by Le Corbusier. Since then, despite several proposals advancing to the final stages of selection, none made it to the parade. This year, the administration aims to offer a renewed vision of the city’s evolving identity.
The centerpiece of the 2025 tableau is a sculpture of a man filming at the Japanese Garden, symbolizing Chandigarh’s growing reputation as a filming destination. Known for its greenery, tranquility, and remarkable architecture, the city continues to attract filmmakers from across the country.
Other key features include Nek Chand’s iconic Rock Garden and a mosaic mural inspired by the Vidhan Sabha’s outer wall, representing the city’s heritage. Floating solar panels at Dhanas Lake—the largest such installation in India—are also showcased, emphasizing Chandigarh’s strides in sustainability.
Additional elements depict lush gardens frequented by yoga enthusiasts, senior citizens, and tourists. Gandhi Bhavan, an architectural treasure designed by Pierre Jeanneret, also finds a place on the tableau, alongside the Rooster Bird Fountain at City Plaza. The city’s extensive public cycle track network, spanning nearly 300 km, highlights its commitment to green urban mobility.
Designed by a team of artists, including Rajesh Kumar Sharma, Anjali Aggarwal, Anand Kumar Sharma, and Surangini, the tableau combines cultural significance with contemporary advancements. “This tableau boldly reflects the symbolic elements that define Chandigarh and its appeal as a cultural and global tourist destination,” said the designers.
Chandigarh’s updated presentation pays tribute to its heritage while embracing innovation, positioning the city as a vibrant and sustainable hub for the future.
