New Delhi: With the country celebrating 75 years of becoming a Republic, the traditional “At Home” reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan this year will also feature a unique cultural twist. According to reports, this year’s invitees will receive a specially curated box of artisanal crafts representing the rich heritage of the five southern states—Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
The initiative, conceptualised by President Droupadi Murmu, aims to celebrate India’s 5,000-year-old civilisation while promoting sustainability and local craftsmanship. Rashtrapati Bhavan officials, in collaboration with the National Institute of Design (NID), executed the project with contributions from artisans of these states, according to a The Hindu report.
The invitation box includes:
- A bamboo-weave box adorned with Kalamkari paintings by Nimmalakunta artisans.
- An Ikat-Pochampalli fabric cover designed for reuse.
- A fridge magnet featuring Mysore’s traditional Ganjifa art.
- A Kanjeevaram silk pouch from Tamil Nadu.
- Etikoppaka dolls from Andhra Pradesh.
- A bookmark woven from screwpine leaves by Kerala artisans.
The elements, all bearing GI tags, reflect the cultural diversity of the country. While the list of the invitees is not out yet, reports indicate that it might include women drone pilots (‘drone didis’), individuals with disabilities, natural farming pioneers, and other achievers from diverse backgrounds.
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What is ‘At Home’ reception?
The “At Home” reception is a long-standing tradition hosted by the President on national holidays such as Independence Day and Republic Day. It serves as a platform for interaction between government leaders, diplomats, and cultural figures in a relaxed yet formal setting.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud were among the notable attendees of the Independence Day 2024 reception hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This year’s Republic Day edition, infused with cultural pride, promises to highlight India’s artistic legacy while fostering a spirit of unity and inclusion.
