Assam’s Republic Day tableau at the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path highlighted the rich terracotta heritage of Asharikandi village in Dhubri district, bringing national attention to one of the state’s most distinctive traditional craft forms.
Designed around the theme of cultural self-reliance, the tableau celebrated Asharikandi’s centuries-old terracotta tradition, which is deeply rooted in the riverine culture of western Assam. The presentation depicted artisans at work, moulding clay figures from hiramati (local clay), reflecting the painstaking craftsmanship passed down through generations.
At the centre of the tableau stood a large terracotta figure holding earthen lamps, symbolising continuity, creativity and the living nature of the craft. The front portion featured bamboo fencing and traditional earthen items, underlining the close relationship between bamboo, clay and rural livelihoods in Assam. The rear of the tableau was designed in the shape of a Mayurpangkhi, a traditional boat, representing the Brahmaputra and the river-based life that sustains the craft community.
Asharikandi is recognised as Assam’s largest terracotta craft cluster, with hundreds of artisan families dependent on pottery and clay modelling for their livelihood. The village is particularly known for iconic creations such as the Hatima doll, which have earned recognition beyond the state. In recent years, the craft received further prominence with the award of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, strengthening efforts to preserve and promote the tradition.
The tableau not only showcased Assam’s artistic heritage but also highlighted the role of traditional crafts in sustainable development and rural employment. As the tableau rolled down Kartavya Path, it offered spectators a vivid glimpse into Assam’s cultural identity, blending art, history and the everyday life of its artisan communities.
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