Republic Day 2026: Odisha features ‘Soil to Silicon’ theme, highlights journey from Agrarian to high-tech innovation growth

New Delhi: On the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, the state of Odisha showcased its transformative journey from its agrarian heritage to innovation-driven growth. The tableau aimed to present a compelling narrative of Atmanirbhar Bharat under the theme ‘Soil to Silicon: Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Innovation.’Echoing the central theme, the tableau’s front section highlighted women-led, inclusive participation, symbolising Odisha’s commitment to equitable development and its growing role in India’s socio-economic progress. This emphasis reflects the state’s focus on empowerment as the foundation of sustainable self-reliance.To symbolise innovation-led growth, at the centre, a hand holding a semiconductor chip represented Odisha’s emergence as a hub of technological advancement, digital capability and skilled human capital.To showcase the state’s rich culture as a complementary complement to modern innovation, the tableau featured Koraput coffee, which symbolised sustainable livelihoods, tribal empowerment, and excellence in indigenous agriculture. Live demonstrations of handloom weaving and handicrafts will further showcase the resilience of Odisha’s artisanal economy and the preservation of traditional skills in a modern context.The rear section showcased the tableau’s architectural highlight, a replica of the Konark Sun Temple, symbolising Odisha’s timeless artistic and civilisational legacy. Pattachitra paintings, tribal art forms, the Jagannath chariot wheel, and silver filigree motifs along the sides reinforce the state’s rich cultural identity and craftsmanship.On this occasion, dancers performed the 16th-century folk dance Chaiti Ghodaa, adding a vibrant cultural dimension and underscoring the state’s enduring contribution to India’s path of self-reliance.Through this symbolic journey from “Soil to Silicon,” the tableau aimed to embody the spirit of Samruddhi ka Mantra and reaffirm Odisha’s unwavering commitment to build an Atmanirbhar Bharat.Republic Day marks a defining milestone in India’s national journey. It marks the day the Constitution of India came into force on January 26, 1950, formally establishing the country as a ‘Sovereign Democratic Republic’.While independence on August 15, 1947, ended colonial rule, it was the adoption of the Constitution that completed India’s transition to self-governance based on law, institutional accountability, and the will of the Indians.