J&K Republic Day tableau row intensified on Thursday after artist Balwant Thakur strongly defended the artwork that represented Jammu and Kashmir at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. The tableau won second place nationally but also triggered criticism over alleged “foreign Muslim and European influences.”
Responding to the backlash, Thakur said politicising a cultural achievement was unfair and deeply disappointing. He added that blaming artists for imagined narratives damages creative freedom and weakens national unity.
According to Thakur, a Republic Day tableau works under strict creative limits. It must convey a powerful visual story within just 45 seconds. Therefore, artists focus on a single approved theme and highlight only one aspect of a larger subject. He said selective depiction does not reflect bias or exclusion.
Moreover, Thakur explained that the tableau passed through several layers of scrutiny before appearing at the parade. Multiple expert committees reviewed and approved its design. Hence, questioning its intent after national recognition appeared politically motivated, he argued.
The artist, who served as Secretary of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages for eight years, said Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural identity blends diverse historical influences. He stressed that art naturally reflects pluralism rather than narrow political ideologies.
Meanwhile, several cultural figures and art historians came out in support of Thakur. They said the controversy ignores the purpose of cultural representation on national platforms. Instead of celebrating creativity, critics have turned the achievement into a divisive debate.
Observers also noted that Jammu and Kashmir’s tableau aimed to showcase artistic heritage and resilience. The second-place finish, they said, should have united people rather than triggered accusations.
Thakur concluded by urging political leaders to respect artistic autonomy. He said national celebrations should promote cultural harmony, not partisan narratives. According to him, art thrives when society allows it space to breathe freely.
