New Delhi:
In a vibrant celebration of the 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu hosted an ‘At Home’ reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Southern India. The event was a testament to the region’s diverse traditions, featuring traditional greetings, captivating musical performances, and an exquisite exhibition of South Indian textiles and cuisine. The reception also stood out for its inclusivity, honoring ‘drone didis,’ women achievers, and divyang achievers.
Main Body Section
On January 26, 2025, Rashtrapati Bhavan was abuzz with the colors and sounds of Southern India as President Droupadi Murmu welcomed guests to the 76th Republic Day ‘At Home’ reception. The event was a grand celebration of the cultural heritage of the five southern states: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Guests were warmly greeted by couples from each of these states, who were dressed in traditional attire and spoke in their mother tongues. This personal touch set the tone for an evening that was both festive and deeply rooted in tradition.
The special invitees included a diverse group of achievers, such as ‘drone didis’ – rural women trained to use agricultural drones – women achievers, agriculturists engaged in natural farming, and divyang achievers. This inclusive approach made the event a true reflection of India’s diverse societal fabric.
The musical performances were a highlight of the evening, with renowned Carnatic musicians taking the stage. Aishwarya Manikarnike on the Veena, Sumanth Manjunath on the Violin, BC Manjunath on the Mridangam, Rajkamal N on the Flute, and R. Teja on the Nadaswaram and Thavil, all contributed to the musical charm of the event. G Guru Prasanna, an accomplished percussionist specializing in Khanjira, also performed, bringing his global expertise to the stage.
An exhibition of South Indian textiles added another layer of cultural richness to the event. The high tea menu was equally impressive, featuring a variety of South Indian delicacies such as Gongura Pickle Stuffed Kuzhi Paniyaram, Andhra Mini Onion Samosa, and Udupi Uddina Vada. Traditional sweets like Rawa Kesari, Parippu Pradaman, and Mysore Pak were also served, delighting the palates of the guests.
The event was designed to be inclusive for divyangjan, with assistance provided to ensure their full participation. Additionally, the reception highlighted traditional lampmaking crafts from Nachiarkoil and Kerala, showcasing the intricate and age-old techniques of these regions.
The ‘At Home’ reception was a vibrant celebration that not only honored the cultural diversity of Southern India but also brought together a diverse group of achievers and dignitaries. It was a fitting tribute to the rich heritage of the region and a reflection of India’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural preservation.
