Tallest Nataraja Bronze Statue to Grace G20 Summit at Bharat Mandapam
Majestic Nataraja Sculpture for G20 Summit
A towering 30-feet Nataraja bronze statue, believed to be the world’s tallest of its kind, is set to enhance the G20 Presidency hosted by India.
Remarkable Journey of the Statue
Transported on August 25 from Swamimalai, a renowned hub for bronze sculptures in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district, the impressive 28-feet Nataraja statue is destined to adorn the revamped Pragati Maidan Complex during the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi.
A Divine Alloy of Metals
Crafted from ‘ashtadhatu,’ a blend of eight metals including gold, silver, and copper, the monumental 19-tonne statue holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism due to its ‘saatvik’ or pure nature. The renowned sculptor Srikanta Sthapathi, along with his brothers, meticulously handcrafted this masterpiece.
Also read: A 28-ft. Nataraja bronze sculpture
Artistry Inspired by Tradition
Srikanta Sthapathi revealed that they drew inspiration from the Nataraja sculptures of Chidambaram and Konerirajapuram from the Chola period. The statue’s creation also involved the expertise of sculptors like Sadasivam, Gowrisankar, Santosh Kumar, and Raghavan.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Scene
Employing the age-old ‘lost wax’ casting technique, sculptors use a wax model encased in alluvial clay sourced from the banks of the Cauvery River in Swamimalai. The still unpolished statue embarked on its journey to Delhi for final touches and polishing.
Grand Arrival at Bharat Mandapam
The statue, standing at 22 feet with an additional 6-foot pedestal, is en route to the Bharat Mandapam within Pragati Maidan, where the G20 Summit is scheduled for September 9-10, 2023.
A Venue of Opulence
The Convention Hall, hosting the summit’s main meetings, boasts India’s longest chandelier spanning 100 meters. The gallery named ‘The Window of Delhi’ offers a panoramic view of the city and India Gate through a crystal chandelier sourced from the Czech Republic’s renowned Crystal Valley.
Celebrating India’s Heritage
Pre-function spaces within Bharat Mandapam will beautifully represent India’s rich cultural diversity. The convention center, seating 7,000, can adapt to different formats, making it a versatile venue.
Conclusion
The awe-inspiring Nataraja statue, crafted with devotion and artistic excellence, will not only grace the G20 Summit but also stand as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage.
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