Jammu & Kashmir reclaims national spotlight, wins second best tableau award at Republic Day 2026 for cultural grandeur

NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, today presented the second best tableau award to Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture, J&K, at Rashtriya Rangshala Camp, New Delhi, recognising J&K's outstanding performance in the 77th Republic Day Parade.

Renowned theatre personality and  former Secretary of J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Balwant Thakur, who conceptualized the tableau, was present among other dignitaries. The tableau was prepared under the guidance of Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and Principal Secretary, Culture, and executed by Secretary of the J&K Academy, Harvinder Kaur.

The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir was honoured with the second best Tableau award at the culmination of the National Republic Day Celebrations–2026 held in New Delhi.

This prestigious recognition marks Jammu & Kashmir’s return to national prominence in the Republic Day tableau segment and stands as a proud milestone in the Union Territory’s cultural journey.

The accolade is a testament to the tableau’s exceptional conceptual depth, artistic excellence and meticulous execution, achieved through a highly professional and collaborative effort. The tableau captivated the audiences and expert juries alike with its compelling and authentic portrayal of Jammu & Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.

Conceived as a vibrant cultural statement, the tableau depicted Jammu & Kashmir as a land where ancient craftsmanship and living performance traditions coexist in seamless continuity, reflecting the Union Territory’s civilizational depth, diversity and creative resilience.

Unfolding like a richly woven cultural tapestry, the tableau offered a panoramic journey through Jammu & Kashmir’s artistic continuum. The tableau further featured vibrant papier-mâché artefacts and Pahari miniature paintings, with special emphasis on the bold and expressive Basohli style, evoking centuries of artistic refinement and spiritual expression. Artisans’ tools—looms, chisels and brushes—symbolised dedication, discipline, and the quiet perseverance of the craftspeople sustaining these living traditions.

Adding poetic symbolism, saffron blossoms rose gracefully within the tableau, representing Jammu & Kashmir’s cultural soul in bloom and underscoring the region’s historical, cultural, and economic legacy rooted in the land.

On the right flank, the tableau transitioned into rhythm and movement, as the soulful strains of the rabab and santoor set the ambience. Performers in resplendent traditional attire brought the tableau alive through the graceful Rouf of Kashmir, the vigorous Kud of Jammu, and the vibrant folk dances of the Pahari, Bhadarwahi and Gojri communities, celebrating unity in diversity.

Together, crafts, music and dance merged into a living cultural symphony, presenting before the nation and the world the enduring spirit, harmony, resilience and pluralistic ethos of Jammu & Kashmir.

The award not only honours artistic excellence but also reaffirms Jammu & Kashmir’s prominent place on the national cultural map, reflecting the Union Territory’s steadfast commitment towards preserving, promoting and celebrating India’s rich and living heritage.