New Delhi: Kerala is all set to display tableaux in the model of Kerala’s legendary Beypore Uru, a traditional dhow made of pure wood and coir. In a bid to promote women empowerment, the state's art display will be presented exclusively by a 24-member team of women. 

In a first, a tribal dance from Kerala has been included in the parade, along with Kalaripayattu and Shinkari Melam. The literacy mission and Kudumbashree scheme will also be showcased in the tableaux. 

A statue of Cheppad native Karthyayini Amma, who aced the literacy exam at the age of 96 and won the Nari Shakti Puraskar, holds the first position in the tableaux. 

In addition, there will be a demonstration of ‘Irula Nritham’ (a traditional dance form of the Irula community) by artists of the tribal Kalamandalam in Attappady, led by National Award-winning singer Nanchamma. 

Meanwhile, Kalaripayattu will be performed by BN Shubha and her daughter Divyasree of Nithya Chaithanya Kalari Centre in Delhi. Shinkari Melam will be performed by Kudumbashree’s Saptavarna Sangham of Pappinisseri. 

Last year, Kerala did not find a place in the parade as its proposed theme was rejected owing to certain disputes with the central government. 

However, this year, the state’s parade team is being led by Sini K Thomas, Kerala Government’s information officer in Delhi. 

Music: Nachamma, Choreography: S Palaniswamy (Tribal dance), Kalamandalam Abhishek (Shinkari Melam)