Leader of Opposition and DMK convenor R. Siva has condemned the absence of local heritage symbols in the tableaux of Puducherry to be presented at the Republic Day Parade in Delhi.
While hailing the effort taken to facilitate the Union Territory making its debut among the 30 pagaents at the prestigious event this year, Mr. Siva said such an opportunity should have been utilised to showcase the handicrafts, cultural and spiritual heritage of Puducherry.
The carriage depicts symbols of Auroville, which is technically located in Tamil Nadu, although it is a legacy of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, who lived in Puducherry, a hut with artisans, elephants and horses, that were not reflective of Puducherry’s unique appeal, he said.
The pageant has omitted symbols such as the Arikamedu archaeological site with its artefacts establishing trade links with ancient Rome, the French influence on the architectural heritage of the place, which former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru described as a window to French culture, the rich weaving tradition or the Aayi Mandapam, the DMK leader said.
Published – January 26, 2026 12:19 am IST
