In a remarkable display of artistry and cultural significance, a colossal 'Nataraja' statue, believed to be the world's tallest, is being meticulously installed at the prestigious venue of the upcoming G20 Summit. This awe-inspiring 28-foot tall statue, inclusive of its pedestal, has been crafted using the ancient lost-wax technique of metal casting, echoing the remarkable artistry of the famed Chola bronzes from the past.
This 'Nataraja' statue, a symbol of Lord Shiva as the 'lord of dance' and his cosmic power of creation and destruction, is set to draw an immense crowd to the Bharat Mandapam campus, where the G20 Leaders' Summit will convene from September 9-10. Bharat Mandapam, a newly-constructed international convention and exhibition center at Pragati Maidan, has undergone an extensive transformation along Mathura Road, adorned with thematic posters, artistic logos, and the flags of G20 member nations, PTI reported.
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On the summit's inaugural day, an intriguing 'Culture Corridor,' conceived by the Ministry of Culture, will be unveiled within Bharat Mandapam. This innovative concept aims to bring together the most valuable artifacts from all 29 participating countries in a single space, symbolizing the essence of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the overarching theme of G20. The corridor also serves as a testament to the unifying power of culture, a fitting tribute to the sub-theme 'Culture Unites All' of the G20 Culture Working Group under India's presidency.
The 'Culture Corridor – G20 Digital Museum' will showcase both physical and digital artifacts from G20 members and invited countries, creating a cultural journey that G20 leaders will traverse as they move in and out of the summit room. India's contributions to this international project encompass a diverse range of cultural treasures, from yoga and the Kumbh Mela to Vedic chanting and the lost-wax tradition of bronze casting, with the 'Nataraja' statue standing as a testament to the latter technique's enduring legacy.
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The lost-wax process, a time-honored tradition in sculptural craftsmanship, has its roots dating back to the era of the Cholas, whose bronze creations continue to be treasured today. In this intricate metal casting method, molten metal, often bronze, gold, or silver, is poured into a mold created using wax or similar resin-like materials. Once the metal cools and solidifies, the wax model is melted and removed, leaving behind the exquisite artwork.
During the ninth meeting of the G20 coordination committee, Prime Minister's Principal Secretary P K Mishra oversaw the progress of the Nataraja statue's installation, ensuring that every detail aligns with the grandeur of the occasion. The 'Culture Corridor' exhibition will span a sprawling 10,000 square feet area along the hallway adjacent to the summit room, featuring a captivating immersive zone with a mega-screen display.
Among the curated artifacts to be showcased in the 'Culture Corridor' are Manuscripts of the Rig Veda from India, a rare copy of the Magna Carta from the UK, an anamorphic digital image of the Mona Lisa from France, certified original copies of the Charters of Freedom from the US, and a fahua lidded jar from China, offering a global mosaic of cultural treasures.
Beyond the 'Culture Corridor,' the Ministry of Culture is also entrusted with creating backdrops for the Indian Prime Minister's and President of India's interactions with world leaders and their spouses. Additionally, a culturally rich program is being curated for the final dinner of G20 leaders and their spouses and other VVIPs. Furthermore, an exhibition celebrating India as the 'Mother of Democracy' will narrate the nation's illustrious 5,000-year history and its enduring commitment to democratic traditions. This mosaic of cultural and artistic expressions promises to add depth and meaning to the G20 Summit, transcending international diplomacy with the universal language of culture and heritage.
