Ranchi, Nov. 6: The Asuras of Jharkhand may get to showcase their traditional iron smelting skills during next year's Republic Day parade in Delhi if the state's idea, which has made it to a short list of tableaux, makes the final cut.

According to state information and public relations department director A.K. Pandey, Jharkhand proposed five tableaux themes, namely, Seraikela chhau, Chatra's Itkhori temple, Giridih's revered Parasnath temple, a depiction of Santhal Hul, the rebellion against the British by Sidho, Kanhu, Chand and Bhairav in Santhal Pargana region, and the Asura tribe's art of iron smelting.

"The Asura idea has been short-listed along with tableaux proposed by other states and Union territories. We are hopeful that Jharkhand's depiction of the Asura tribe would qualify," he told The Telegraph over phone from Delhi.

Pandey said that at yesterday's meeting in Delhi, a 16-member committee constituted by the Union ministry of defence short-listed the tableaux. Now, Jharkhand would prepare a model based on theme of Asuras' iron smelting and present it before the committee on November 23.

Tableaux from as many as 12 to 15 states are usually selected for the Republic Day parade. A final decision would be taken by December 10.

The Asuras, a particularly vulnerable tribal group, reside primarily in Kujampat, Netarhat and other areas of Latehar and Gumla districts. Considered artisans, these people have been practising iron smelting for generations.

Old timers claim that the iron worked upon by Asuras never rusts. Jharkhand's tableaux of the Maluti temples of Santhal Pargana found place in the Republic Day parade last year.