NEW DELHI: The G20 summit has emerged as a groundbreaking platform for the world to delve into India's millennia-old art, culture, heritage, and traditions. A veritable microcosm of India's diverse tapestry has been meticulously curated within the splendid Bharat Mandapam, where modern technology and timeless traditions entwine to captivate international guests. This artisanal market offers a multifaceted journey through India's multifarious culture, local cuisine, and distinctive crafts.
Collaborating with all Indian states, the Union Ministry of Textiles, Culture, Khadi India, and Tribal Affairs has erected an exhibition reflecting India's incredible diversity under the "One District-One Product" initiative. Each state adorns the market with its unique culture, art, and craftsmanship. Among the marvels on display are vibrantly colored papier-mâché paintings hailing from the 15th-century Shopen Tabdi of Kashmir, Chinar leaf embroidery, Phulkari embroidery from Punjab, the 16th-century Chamba handkerchief from Himachal Pradesh, intricate carvings from Uttar Pradesh, Gujarati Kathiawar embroidery, Kantha work from West Bengal, Manipur's Kauna basketry, Thanjavur paintings from the Chola dynasty of Tamil Nadu, Kanjeevaram silk sarees, Lippan art from Gujarat, Madhubani paintings from Bihar, and Pethora paintings from Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.
Uttar Pradesh takes center stage with its impressive brass carvings depicting 'Lord Shri Ram' in Ayodhya and Moradabad. A splendid tableau featuring Lord Shri Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman graces this pavilion. Renowned Moradabad artisan and Padma Shri awardee, Dilshad Hussain, offers live demonstrations of brass carving, showcasing a skill passed down through four generations. His craftsmanship has garnered international attention, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi even presenting his intricately carved brass pots during a visit to Germany. Visitors can also purchase these exquisite brass utensils, ranging from 50 thousand to 1 lakh rupees.
Himachal Pradesh, despite grappling with natural disasters, extends a warm welcome to G20 guests. It offers a glimpse into its heritage with 'Chamba Rumal' and 16th-century slippers. Dinesh Kumari's Chamba Rumal, priced at over one lakh rupees, showcases intricate silk-thread embroidery featuring peacocks, Lord Krishna, Lord Ganapati, and leaves. The pavilion also features traditional musical instruments and the iconic 5000-year-old Kullu shawls.
The Punjab Pavilion spotlights the renowned art of Phulkari, allowing foreign guests to witness its creation firsthand. Seventy-year-old Padma Shri awardee Lajwanti demonstrates the art of Phulkari, which she has practiced since the tender age of seven. The G20 provides her a global stage to exhibit her remarkable skills.
Haryana takes a step back in time, showcasing pottery akin to the 'Sindhu-Saraswati' civilization unearthed during archaeological excavations at Rakhigarhi in Hisar, Haryana. This display aims to acquaint foreign guests with India's ancient 'Indus-Saraswati' civilization, highlighting how our ancestors cooked in earthen pots thousands of years ago.
The Uttarakhand Pavilion offers a spiritual journey with a glimpse of Lord Kedarnath-Badrinath and the allure of a Kumaoni bride, embodying traditional Pahari bridal attire. These representations showcase the enchanting hill culture and art of Uttarakhand. Visitors can savor the unique hill spice tea, known for its soothing properties in cold, cough, and fever.
Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh, within the Union Territories, beckon foreign guests with their art, culture, and luxurious Pashmina crafted from yak wool. The exhibit includes live demonstrations of brightly colored papier-mâché paintings dating back to the 15th century in Kashmir. Ladakh boasts its GI-tagged wood carvings, characterized by intricate designs and unique patterns.
The G20 summit stands as an unprecedented opportunity for the world to embrace India's rich heritage, artistry, and cultural diversity, leaving an indelible mark on all who visit Bharat Mandapam.