The search platform giant, Google India, joins in the celebrations of 72nd Republic Day. Donned in deep saffron (for strength and courage), and green (fertility, growth, and auspiciousness), the Google doodle - for today - showcases the enriched culture of the country. Illustrated by Mumbai-based artist Onkar Fondekar, the search engine’s name is written in navy blue - the same as the colour of the wheel that represents the chakra on our national flag.
From our love for cricket to our interest in classical arts (music and dance) the Google doodle seems to capture the true spirit of India. While also depicting various traditional attires of the country, the doodle is an apt attempt at bringing alive the patriotic song, ‘Hind Desh ke niwasi, sabhi jan ek hai; rang roop vesh bhasha chahe anek hai (the residents of India, all are one, even though the look, the feel, the clothes, the language are different).’
While wishing India a ‘Happy Republic Day,’ the search engine giant explains the idea behind today’s doodle. Google, on their website, explains about the doodle, and mentions, ‘With origins that stretch back hundreds of years, musical instruments such as the dholak (a two-headed hand drum) and the sitar (a long-necked stringed instrument), both featured in the Doodle artwork, are just a few examples of India’s rich heritage.’
The website further mentions, ‘From its distinctive architectural styles to the Bollywood film industry, India’s cultural impact is felt across the world, and today, there is much to celebrate.’
In an F&Q, also mentioned on the website, the artist was questioned, “What do you hope people take away from your Doodle?,” to which he answered, “Unity.”
Amid pandemic rules, and the protesting farmer’s tractor march scheduled in New Delhi, this year’s Republic Day is sure to wear a different look. For one, the spectator size will be reduced from around a lakh last year to 25,000. According to a few reports, a total of 32 tableaux will be seen going down Rajpath this year. Among these, the tableaux of Ladakh –– the Union Territory that was created in 2019 after the bifurcation of Jammu & Kashmir –– will be included for the first time.
