PANJIM, JAN 31
Union Defence Minister A K Antony awarded the second prize for "Second Best Tableau" for Republic Day to the tableau of Goa Government which had International Film Festival of India as its theme in a glittering ceremony here today.
The Goan tableau showcased the country's cinematic legacy and even had a look-alike of 'Auro' (Amitabh Bachchan's character in 'Paa') which drew a roar of applause from children.
The award was received by the Director of Information amd Publicity Menino Peres on behalf of the State Government. Chief Artiste Sushant Khedekar who was in Delhi throughout and took hard efforts was also present along with the music composer for the tableau Sidhnath Buyao and Deputy Resident Commissioner of Goa Sadan, Valsala Vijayan.
The `Best Tableau Award’ for Republic Day went to Sangeet Natak Akademi.
The tableau of Ministry of Culture, designed by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, showcased various 'Vadyas' or instruments like veena, tabla and santoor encompassing country's rich diversity.
Chhattisgarh, showcasing the 2,500-million-year-old stalagmite caves in Kotumsar, won the third prize. Besides, a special prize was awarded to the innovative tableau of Central Public Works Department which chose to spread awareness on global warming.
In the School Children item category, Dollu Kunitha, presented by the South Zone Cultural Center, Thanjavur (Union Ministry of Culture) was awarded the best item prize.
Goa had presented its float on the theme "IIFI in Goa" depicting successful organization of international film festival which revolves through majestic Golden Peacock, and all familiar IFFI Logo mounted atop the front tractor which colorfully displayed International Cinema's real life.
By bagging this prestigious award at the Cultural Pageantry which presents a glimpse of our ancient civilization, cultural diversity and progress symbolizing India's glorious past and reflecting the citizens aspiration for a prosperous and happy tomorrow, the Goa State has regained its lost glory of winning the prizes in at the Republic Day Parades. Goa had bagged the first prize and other prizes some years back.
Goa presented its float in the Republic Day Parade this year after a gap of two years.     
A total of 21 tableaux covered the 10-km-long parade route this year, 13 from States and eight from various government ministries and departments with around 350 artists accompanying them.