From Shivaji to Rani Laxmibai: MoD Proposes Ancient Warfare Tableau for R-Day 2026

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has proposed ‘Ancient Warfare/Military Strategy’ as the central theme for its 2026 Republic Day tableau, aiming to spotlight India’s historical martial heritage through authentic weapons and 3D visualisations of past military strategies.

According to Hindustan Times, the concept was initiated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and communicated to the Ministry of Culture for feasibility assessment.

The proposed display could include artefacts linked to iconic figures such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rani Laxmibai, and Maharana Pratap, with the MoD seeking to blend original weaponry with modern design.

What exactly has the defence ministry proposed?

A formal letter from the MoD to the Ministry of Culture outlined the idea, proposing a tableau that showcases India’s military history through original weapons and strategic elements drawn from historical narratives.

What role will the culture ministry play?

The Ministry of Culture has been asked to evaluate the logistics and design feasibility, which includes developing two to three preliminary 3D sketches of potential tableau concepts.

What about historical artefacts?

A significant component involves sourcing genuine historical weaponry. The culture ministry is reportedly exploring collaboration with families who have preserved traditional arms-making knowledge. Some of these families are believed to possess original or prototype weapons used by historical figures such as Maharana Pratap.

Is the theme linked to a broader strategic initiative?

While not officially confirmed, the proposed tableau aligns with the Indian Army’s Project Udbhav, launched in 2023 by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

The initiative aims to draw upon ancient Indian military texts—such as the Arthashastra, Nitisara, and Thirukkural—to integrate traditional strategic principles with modern defence thinking. Singh described it as a way to create a “culturally rooted approach” to present-day security challenges.

What role does the Ministry of Defence play in organising the Republic Day parade?

As the nodal authority, the defence ministry oversees selection for the Republic Day tableaux. Each year, central ministries, states, and union territories submit proposals aligned with the selected theme. These are reviewed by an expert committee based on creativity, conceptual clarity, visual impact, and adherence to theme.

The final designs are typically frozen by November, with iterative reviews of sketches and 3D models before public unveiling.

What were the recent themes in previous years?

The 2025 theme was “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas” (Golden India: Heritage and Development). In 2024, the themes included “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka” (India – the Mother of Democracy). The 2023 edition focused on Jan Bhagidari (People’s Participation).