Sixteenth Peacock

The Sixteenth Peacock

The peacock – one of the most extravagant and magnanimous birds, is an epitome of grace, majesty and beauty. Our sixteenth peacock is unique as it has 28 feathers that represent 28 Indian states. The leaves represent 8 Union Territories. The crest atop of its head stands for 5 themes of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Our richness and diversity is beautifully integrated into this masterpiece that takes the form of our National Bird. 

Finishing strokes in Blue & Green

Our sincere gratitude to Shri. Devendra Fadnavis ji, Deputy Chief Minister – Maharashtra State, for adding a few finishing strokes in two colors – green and blue, that blend to emerge as “Neela Rang”. While adding colors to the crest atop the peacock’s head, Sir reinforced five themes of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav – Freedom Struggle, Ideas@75, Resolve@75, Actions@75 and Achievements@75!

Thoughts behind the making of Sixteenth Peacock

Artist Ms. Mitul Pradeep ji used mixed medium to create the Sixteenth Peacock. This was absolutely essential to showcase the diversity, values, culture, heritage and art of our Nation.

Here's all about feathers that represent 28 States

  • Andhra Pradesh - A type of hand-painted or block-printed cotton textile made in Andhra Pradesh is known as Kalamkari. A well-known hand mudra is used to portray this art.
  • Bihar - Madhubani art of Bihar is highlighted by using fish motifs as fishes represent happy state of mind.
  • Chhattisgarh - Dhokra Art is a popular folk style from this State. Clay and golden paint are used to depict it.
  • Goa - The seashell crafts of Goa date back to the Portuguese era. Today, it has evolved into a distinctive handcraft technique that both residents and visitors find appealing.
  • Gujarat - Kutchi Bharat embroidery, a handicraft and textile heritage, can adorn multiple objects such as camels, torans, bed covers, bags, and wall hangings.
  • Haryana- People represent the place. With reference to that notion, Haryana is symbolised by a man wearing a traditional pagdi.
  • Himachal Pradesh - Jute and wool handlooms and handicrafts best describe this state. As a result, these sources serve as a representation of the state's art.
  • Jharkhand - The art form of Tikuli is a type of handpainting, and its history spread over 800 years. Tikuli paintings has smaller motifs as compare to Madhubani art.
  • Karnataka - Rangoli plays an important role in everyday life and represents happiness, positivity, and liveliness of a household. In Karnataka, traditional white Rangoli patterns are well-known and we showcase the same out here.
  • Kerala - Elephants form an integral part of the cultural ethos and are deeply connected to the state’s religious and social functions. Hence, a decorated elephant is used to represent this state.
  • Madhya Pradesh- The Gonds, India's largest tribal community, are known for practising Gond art. This colourful artwork draws its inspiration from nature.
  • Maharashtra - Warli is the oldest type of Indian folk art. Clay is used to give this traditional art form a 3D appearance, which gives it a distinctive representation.
  • Odisha - Pattachitra, inspired by Lord Jagannath and the Vaishnava faith defines Odisha. This is what we have showcased as well.
  • Punjab - The rural handicraft embroidery tradition, Phulkari, was initiated by the women of Punjab in the 15th century. Phulkari translates into "floral work".
  • Rajasthan - Phad painting is religious scroll painting and folk painting of this state. Artisans across the country appreciate this art form for its vibrant visual representation.
  • Seven Sister States - This is a popular term for the contiguous states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura prior to inclusion of the state of Sikkim into the North Eastern Region of India. For centuries, the Northeast has been a smorgasbord of various cultures, which is reflected in the rich array of handicrafts found here. States of the Northeast practise similar artforms produced from natural resources such as bamboo and cane products, such as masks, wood carvings, textiles, and earthenware. The artist has effectively articulated a variety of artistic mediums that represent all states. 
  • Sikkim - Here is a reservoir of eye-catching, knotted handicrafts and handlooms like carpets, wood-carved furniture, and canvas wall hangings. A woollen patch in the shape of a circle is used to represent Sikkim art.
  • Tamil Nadu - The South Indian painting style known as Tanjore was created in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. This art form is represented by circular patterns in the Sixteenth Peacock.
  • Telangana - Cheriyal Scroll Painting, a popular and adapted form of Nakashi art, is regarded as being extremely rich in regional themes. This art form is unique to the state of Telangana and it is used out here.
  • Uttarakhand - During auspicious occasions, white and brown rangoli are painted as a traditional practise in Uttarakhand. This rangoli art serves as a representation of the state.
  • Uttar Pradesh - Chikan (embroidery) art comes from Uttar Pradesh and is often practised by women to support their livelihood.
  • West Bengal - Alpana is the art form practised in West Bengal. Painting colourful themes, patterns, and symbols on walls and floors is a historic practise carried out by women.

Here's all about leaves that represent 8 Union Territories

  • Andaman and Nicobar Islands - The expansive beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands are laden with shells that are used to create beautiful items, the same adorns one of the leaves.
  • Chandigarh - The use of stones have been emphasized in this work of art; an inspiration derived from the Rock Garden of Chandigarh.
  • Dadra Nagar Haveli - Warli Painting is the art form that represents the culture of Dadra Nagar Haveli. Although bearing resemblance to the art form of Maharashtra the forms of figures used have a distinct appeal.
  • The Government of NCT of Delhi - A blend of gold and silver, zardosi work is a magical form of art that can easily lure one with its beauty. It is an elaborate embroidery done on a silk or satin base.
  • Jammu & Kashmir - Famous for its shawls; the art form is made using Jhaalidar gold embroidery with colors.
  • Ladakh - The handicraft of Leh Ladakh unearths the beauty of wool art; this serves as an inspiration behind usage of wool as a motif for its representation.
  • Lakshwadeep - The typical topography of Lakshwadeep is a treasure house of shells and corals. Shells are used to make various handicraft items and therefore remains an icon of representing Lakshwadeep.
  • Puducherry - The Puducherry art form expresses its culture via use of diverse masks. The masks are made using several materials ranging from wood to clay.

The crown of the Sixteenth Peacock is our humble attempt to share five key themes of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav

Freedom Struggle

Commemorating milestones in history, unsung heroes etc.

Ideas@75

Celebrating ideas and ideals that have shaped India.

Resolve@75

Reinforcing commitments to specific goals and targets.

Actions@75

Highlighting steps being taken to implement policies and actualise commitments.

Achievements@75

Showcasing evolution and progress across different sectors.