India's colourful heritage comes alive in Google's Republic Day doodle

The majestic pachyderm itself represents the second O in the technology bellwethers name.In a note released on the august occasion, the company said, Todays doodle, illustrated by Mumbai-based guest artist Onkar Fondekar, honours the day 72 years ago when the Indian Constitution took effect and made official the countrys full transition to a sovereign republic. In celebration of Indias Republic Day, the doodle artwork reflects the range of vibrant cultures that bring the colourful nation to life, it said.The doodle portrays people from various religious and cultural backgrounds underlining the diversity of India.


PTI | New Delhi | Updated: 26-01-2021 08:34 IST | Created: 26-01-2021 08:34 IST
India's colourful heritage comes alive in Google's Republic Day doodle
  • Country:
  • India

India's art and architecture, cultural and sartorial heritage have been captured in a fascinating and colourful doodle by Internet search giant Google to mark the 72nd anniversary of the country's Republic Day.

The artwork showcases beautiful old buildings in the backdrop in light saffron hue along with people in the front in green shade, with the letters of the company's name in blue emblazoned in the middle, in a nod to the tricolour.

While letters 'G' and 'O' stand towards the left of a caparisoned elephant with a mahout, last three letters of 'Google', are positioned to its right. The majestic pachyderm itself represents the second 'O' in the technology bellwether's name.

In a note released on the august occasion, the company said, ''Today's doodle, illustrated by Mumbai-based guest artist Onkar Fondekar, honours the day 72 years ago when the Indian Constitution took effect and made official the country's full transition to a sovereign republic.'' In celebration of India's Republic Day, the doodle artwork reflects the range of vibrant cultures that bring the colourful nation to life, it said.

The doodle portrays people from various religious and cultural backgrounds underlining the diversity of India. They represent various occupations too, such as a cricketer swinging his willow, farmers, teachers, folk musicians, drum players, filmmakers, dancers, musicians and students.

''With origins that stretch back hundreds of years, musical instruments such as the dholak (a two-headed hand drum) and the sitar, both featured in the doodle artwork, are just a few examples of India's rich heritage,'' the note by Google said.

Republic Day marks the adoption of the Constitution by India, which cane into effect on January 26, 1950. Google has a tradition of making iconic doodles to mark significant and historic events, and has portrayed this occasion several times in previous years.

''From its distinctive architectural styles to Bollywood, India's cultural impact is felt across the world, and today, there is much to celebrate. Happy Republic Day, India!,'' it said.

Fondekar, who drew the artwork, said he was ecstatic to be part of this project with Google and hoped the message of unity in diversity will reach the masses when they see the artwork online.

''I drew inspiration from the people of India -- the culture, traditions, history, and architecture,'' he was quoted as saying in the statement.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

Give Feedback