INDIA, May 30, 2023 (Indian Express): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated India’s new Parliament building, as part of the revamped Central Vista project. The state-of-the-art building, designed by famed Indian architect Bimal Patel, reflects the culture, pride and spirit of the country. The same was further embodied by a colossal Samudra Manthan mural created by sculptor Naresh Kumawat. In Hinduism, Samudra Manthan is one of the most significant episodes elaborated in the Vishnu Purana, which led to the birth of divine Goddesses angels, and many precious valuables, including the divine nectar of immortality known as Amrit. The literal translation of the words samudra and manthan mean ocean and churning. Together, the phrase thereby denotes the churning of the sea.

As such, for Kumawat, the idea behind creating the Samudra Manthan mural inside the new parliament building signified the churning of ideas and thoughts for public welfare. “About 10 months ago, there were some conversations going on regarding the interiors of the Parliament. We participated in the same and were advised by the Ministry of Culture and Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) to design something on the theme of Angkor Wat and Samudra Manthan, which looked Indianised,” the artist told indianexpress.com. About 40 pieces came together to form this huge 75 feet long and 9 feet tall mural. “This is one of the longest murals in this particular medium. It depicts about 235 sculptures of Gods and Goddesses. It took my team of about 40 workers 10 months of day-night hard work to bring this mural to life,” he said.

More at source.
https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/art-and-culture/sculptor-naresh-kumawat-75-ft-long-samudra-manthan-mural-new-parliament-building-8636345/

Post Views: 1,187