CHENNAI: The Union government has approved Tamil Nadu’s tableau for the upcoming Republic Day parade in New Delhi, with the float set to showcase the State’s initiatives in green energy.

For the 2024 celebrations, Tamil Nadu featured a tableau themed on the early electoral system. However, the State did not participate in the 2025 parade, as the Union government had declined its permission.

It may be recalled that in 2022, the rejection of the state's tableau, themed on ‘Tamil Nadu in Freedom Struggle’, had created a huge outrage. The state government eventually showcased the tableau at its Republic Day parade in the city at Marina Beach.

Ahead of the 2026 celebration, the Union government instructed all states and union territories to align their proposals with the theme ‘Self-Reliant India’. Tamil Nadu has chosen to highlight its progress in renewable and clean energy, one of its key developmental priorities.

TN’s tableau will feature traditional music such as ‘Thavil’ and ‘Nadaswaram’, presenting the State’s efforts in sustainable energy to national and international audiences. Alongside the State floats, ministries and central government departments will also present their tableaux, showcasing achievements and cultural heritage.

The proposals undergo several rounds of scrutiny by an expert committee, with scripts and performance storyboards reviewed before the final approval is granted.