Glorious Saga of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar to Come Alive on Kartavya Path
On Republic Day 2026, an extraordinary confluence of Madhya Pradesh’s cultural richness and women’s empowerment will be witnessed on New Delhi’s Kartavya Path. This year, the Madhya Pradesh tableau will be dedicated to the life, personality, and remarkable achievements of Punya Shloka Lokmata Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar.
The year marks the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar, which the state government is proudly presenting to the world through this tableau.
People’s Choice Award: Online Voting
To secure a top national position for Madhya Pradesh’s glorious heritage, the Ministry of Defence has initiated online voting under the People’s Choice Award. Citizens can cast their valuable votes by visiting the MyGov portal and selecting “Madhya Pradesh” from the list of states.
The voting period is scheduled from January 26 to January 28, 2026.
Tableau Theme: A Blend of Spirituality and Development
The front section of the tableau will feature the compassionate and iconic image of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar holding a Shivling, symbolizing maternal grace and profound spiritual strength.
The middle portion will portray her as a fearless warrior and capable administrator, riding a horse, representing her exceptional governance and leadership. The rear section will showcase the grandeur of Maheshwar Ghat, temples, and forts situated on the banks of the holy Narmada River.
The tableau will also depict, through panels, the restoration of major temples carried out by Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar across India, including Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi), Badrinath, Kedarnath, Somnath, and Jagannath Puri.
A special attraction will be women artisans weaving the world-famous Maheshwari sarees, symbolizing Madhya Pradesh’s economic and cultural heritage. Folk artists accompanying the tableau will enrich the parade with traditional music.
Republic Day Parade 2026 Highlights
The parade will be held in the esteemed presence of Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. A total of 30 tableaux will participate, including representations from 17 states and Union Territories.
The Ministry of Defence has announced special themes for this year: “Mantra of Freedom – Vande Mataram” and “Mantra of Prosperity – Aatmanirbhar Bharat”. Under these themes, Madhya Pradesh’s tableau will vividly present the spiritual, administrative, and cultural legacy of Lokmata Ahilya Bai Holkar.