On Republic Day, Maharashtra’s Cultural Glory to Resonate on Rajpath

Ganeshotsav: Symbol of Self-Reliance – Maharashtra’s Themed Float Ready

New Delhi, Jan 2026 : On the occasion of the 77th Indian Republic Day, Maharashtra’s themed float is ready to take part in the grand parade on Rajpath. This year, the state will present a float based on the concept “Ganeshotsav: Symbol of Self-Reliance”. Adding to the significance, this year also marks 150 years of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’, making the celebration particularly special. The parade will see Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, as chief guests. Maharashtra’s float, showcased in their presence, will highlight the state’s longstanding cultural heritage and growing economic strength to the world.

The float portrays a powerful narrative of how the social revolution initiated by Lokmanya Tilak through public Ganeshotsav continues to contribute to modern India’s self-reliance. At the center of the float is the economic ecosystem created by Ganeshotsav: the massive financial turnover, sustainable employment for sculptors and decorative artists, and the resulting economic chain. Since 2025, the Maharashtra government has celebrated the public Ganeshotsav as a ‘State Festival’, emphasizing not only cultural but also environmental and economic self-reliance, all of which is represented vividly through this float.

Design of the Float

The float is highly artistic and visually striking. At the front, a grand drum symbolizing Maharashtra’s energy is played by women in traditional attire, reflecting the state’s strong female empowerment. At the center, a sculptor is depicted creating a beautiful Ganpati idol, while a devotee prepares for the immersion ritual. The rear of the float features a grand replica of the Ashtavinayak temples, important pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra, along with other cultural elements represented in intricate detail. On both sides of the float, women dressed in traditional nine-yard sarees perform the Lezim folk dance, adding vibrancy to the presentation.

This year’s parade emphasizes people’s participation. Following the Rajpath procession, from January 26 to 31, the float will also be part of the ‘Bharat Parv’ at Red Fort, allowing citizens to experience Maharashtra’s cultural richness and journey towards self-reliance up close.