After an eight-year hiatus, Bihar is poised to once again participate in the Republic Day celebrations of 2025, with a tableau that promises to captivate the nation. The theme chosen by the state is one that resonates with both historical grandeur and modern significance: The Glorious History of Nalanda University and its revival through the New Campus at Rajgir. This marks a pivotal moment for Bihar, as the state embraces its rich intellectual past while celebrating its forward-thinking efforts to rejuvenate an ancient educational institution of global repute.
The tableau will be a dynamic representation of Bihar’s ancient educational glory through a juxtaposition of the ruins of Nalanda University and the newly constructed, state-of-the-art campus situated near the ancient site in Rajgir. This grand return to the Republic Day parade will be a visual spectacle that connects the past with the present, in alignment with the Government of India’s overarching theme for 2025: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas (Golden India: Heritage and Development). The theme was chosen to symbolise the seamless integration of India’s rich heritage with the country’s ongoing progress and modernisation, which Bihar’s tableau perfectly encapsulates.
Bihar has not showcased its tableau at the Republic Day parade since 2016, when the theme revolved around Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha. This long break from the national stage has only heightened the anticipation surrounding Bihar’s return in 2025. The state’s tableau is expected to stand as a testament to both the revival of Nalanda University and Bihar’s commitment to restoring its legacy as a hub of education and knowledge.
The selection of the theme is symbolic, as it speaks to a larger movement spearheaded by both the Bihar government and the central government to restore Nalanda University to its former glory. The ruins of Nalanda, once a leading center of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage site, continue to be a source of immense pride for the people of Bihar. However, the establishment of a modern campus near the heritage site symbolises a bold new chapter for one of the oldest universities in the world.
The revival of Nalanda University is a collaborative effort between Bihar and the Union government, which underscores the importance of education in driving the state’s development. The theme chosen for the tableau not only highlights the ancient ruins of Nalanda but also celebrates the ambitious modern-day project of rebuilding it into an international academic institution that will foster global cooperation in higher education.
Nalanda was originally established by Emperor Kumaragupta in 427 CE and is considered the first residential university in the world, attracting scholars from across Asia, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and other regions. The new Nalanda University, inaugurated in June 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, represents a vital step toward reclaiming the global status of this intellectual powerhouse.
In his address during the inauguration of the new campus, PM Modi described the revival of Nalanda University as the beginning of a new golden age for India, emphasising the focus on fostering academic excellence, international collaboration, and knowledge exchange across diverse disciplines. With this new campus, Nalanda aims to become a beacon of learning, innovation, and culture, making a significant contribution to India’s standing as a global leader in education.
The process of selecting the tableau design involved multiple steps and rigorous review sessions. The state’s Information and Public Relations Department (IPRD) had submitted various proposals for different themes, including cultural representations such as Chhath, the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali scheme, and eco-tourism initiatives promoting sustainable development. However, the theme centered on the revival of Nalanda University ultimately emerged as the winning submission.
The design underwent several stages of refinement through detailed review sessions with an expert committee formed by the Ministry of Defence. The committee, consisting of specialists from various fields such as art, culture, music, and dance, evaluated each submission for its artistic distinctiveness, thematic relevance, originality, and overall visual impact. The chosen design encapsulates the grandeur of Nalanda’s historical significance, while incorporating modern elements to highlight the university’s revival.
With the final design now approved, the process of fabricating Bihar’s tableau has already begun. The tableau will combine traditional artistic elements with cutting-edge technology to create a breathtaking display that reflects both the historical and modern aspects of Nalanda University. A dedicated team, led by an empanelled agency, is working on the conceptualisation, design, and fabrication of the tableau, ensuring that the finished product is nothing short of spectacular.
Bihar is one of the 15 states selected to present its tableau at the Republic Day parade in 2025, and its return to Kartavya Path after several years is sure to draw attention. The tableau will not only showcase Bihar’s contribution to India’s cultural and educational heritage but will also serve as a symbol of progress and innovation.
Nikhil Anand, National General Secretary of the BJP OBC Morcha, expressed his pride in Bihar’s return to the Republic Day celebrations. He stated, “Bihar’s glorious past, especially its legacy as a land of knowledge and awakening, is recognised and respected worldwide. We are proud to see the revival of Nalanda University being showcased at the Republic Day parade. This is not just a celebration of history but a testament to Bihar’s bright future.”
For the people of Bihar, the tableau’s inclusion in the Republic Day parade is more than just a visual display. It is a reminder of the state’s historical significance and its role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the nation. The revival of Nalanda University is a proud moment for all Biharis, and the tableau will serve as a poignant reminder of the state’s enduring legacy.
