Southern flavour prevailed at the customary reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu for Republic Day on Sunday (January 26, 2025), with artists and music from the five southern States of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, as well as an extensive menu featuring snacks from each of those States.
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The theme was a continuum from the invitation itself, which featured craft from the five States — from Kalamkari weaves to a fridge magnet made of Ganjifa art of Mysuru to miniature Etikoppaka dolls. The idea for the theme for the reception, marking the completion of 75 years of the Indian Republic, was an idea floated by President Murmu herself, but had its roots in past customs as well. It was India’s first president Dr. Rajendra Prasad who wanted the inclusion of all parts of the country within the President’s calendar, which resulted in Rashtrapati Nilayam, in Hyderabad, being designated as the President’s Winter Retreat.
While the invite was executed by the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, and its Bengaluru campus, the staff of Rashtrapati Bhawan put together the menu featuring Udupi uddina vadas, filter coffee, murukku, tapioca chips, Mysore Pak, rawa kesari etc.
Guests were greeted by Yakshagana and Kathakali artists as they entered Amrit Udyan where the reception was being held and instrumental music featuring south Indian songs was played throughout the event.
Special invitees included drone didis, organic farmers and people with disabilities.
Rashtrapati Bhawan officials say that this will not be the last time that such themes are applied and that northeastern States and others will also be featured in the future.
“The idea is to be inclusive in functions that pertain to the Indian state, so that the entire country is covered,” said an official.
