14x60-ft installation depicts India’s journey from ancient centres of learning to technology-driven classrooms under National Education Policy
The 14x60-ft Ministry of Education tableau showing learners in VR headsets, Aryabhata blessing students, NEP 2020 rocket, and a revolving Viksit Bharat 2047 tower. Pics/By Special Arrangement
A striking tableau representing the Ministry of Education has been crafted at The Sir J.J. School of Arts, Architecture and Design (Deemed-to-be-de novo- University), blending India’s ancient knowledge systems with modern learning tools. Themed Ancient Origins, Digital Wings, the installation features students wearing virtual reality headsets, while Aryabhata — the father of Indian mathematics — is shown blessing today’s learners.
At the centre of the 14-by-60-foot tableau is a rocket symbolising the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, highlighting experiential learning and skills such as sports and music. The structure stands 16 feet tall and rises to nearly 20 feet using hydraulic lifts. At the rear is a revolving ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ tower showcasing smart classrooms and tinkering labs. Panels also reflect education in regional languages and include a ‘jaadui pitaara’ displaying indigenous toys.
Work on the tableau began a few months ago after the Ministry of Education shared the theme with Prof Dr Vijay Sakpal of JJ School. “JJ Schoolhas always played an active role in creating large-scale national art projects. This year, the tableau reflects the central vision of the Ministry of Education,” Sakpal told mid-day.
Around 40 students and alumni were involved in designing and fabricating the tableau. The team used skills ranging from painting, sculpting, and portraiture to engineering, hydraulic, and rotating mechanisms, while electronics were employed for lighting effects on the NEP rocket.
For many, it was their first experience working on a project of this scale. Final-year student Rohit Ghanashyam Kharote, 23, said, “It’s a rare opportunity where you interact with indigenous artists from across the country and learn about their culture and techniques. The exposure has been incredible.”
The tableau is the result of coordinated efforts by design students specialising in applied arts and technology, interior design students handling model-making, and teams of sculptors and painters. On Sunday evening, the installation received its final touches before being fully assembled for the big day. By midnight, the tableau will be positioned along Rajpath ahead of the Republic Day 2026 parade, scheduled to begin at 10 am today.
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