This year’s Republic Day parade will feature a special tableau by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting celebrating Indian cinema. As reported earlier, the Ministry entrusted filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali with designing the tableau. HT has exclusively learnt that Bhansali has conceptualised the theme ‘Bharat Gatha’ and roped in singer Shreya Ghoshal to render a specially composed song.
Shreya Ghoshal collaborates with Sanjay Leela Bhansali for Republic Day tableau
The tableau marks a significant first, as an Indian filmmaker will represent Indian cinema at the country’s most prestigious ceremonial event. To bring his ‘Bharat Gatha’ vision to life, Bhansali has collaborated with Shreya Ghoshal, sources said. A frequent creative partner of the filmmaker, Ghoshal has recorded a specially composed song that will play as the tableau moves along Kartavya Path on January 26.
Also Read: Seven Countries, One Winner: Europe’s Best Christmas Market
“Shreya Ghoshal has lent her voice to a bespoke composition for ‘Bharat Gatha’, the Republic Day tableau conceptualised by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Music remains central to Bhansali’s storytelling, and his collaborations with Shreya consistently deliver strong emotional resonance. Each time they come together, they create moments that leave a lasting impact, and this time, that musical experience will unfold on Kartavya Path as part of the Republic Day Parade itself,” a source close to the development said.
The tableau highlights Indian cinema’s influence on popular culture
According to the source, the tableau reflects the I&B Ministry’s vision of presenting Indian cinema not merely as entertainment, but as a continuation of India’s rich civilisational storytelling tradition.
Shreya Ghoshal began her association with Sanjay Leela Bhansali with Devdas (2002), recording her debut song Silsila Ye Chaahat Ka at the age of 20—a performance that earned her a National Award. Since then, she has lent her voice to several Bhansali compositions, including Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat and Gangubai Kathiawadi.
Also Read: Mandira Bedi, 53, reveals fitness mantra: ‘Lifting heavier than ever’