World's Tallest 'Nataraja' Statue Takes Centre Stage at G20 Summit Venue
In a remarkable display of artistry and cultural significance, a colossal 'Nataraja' statue, believed to be the world's tallest, was meticulously installed at the prestigious venue of the G20 Summit in Delhi. 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.
It is sculpted by Thanjavur's traditional Sthapatis of Swamimalai.
The lost-wax process, a time-honoured 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.
Sep 05, 2023
Kathmandu-Kalinga Literary Festival 2023
The three day long Kathmandu-Kalinga Literary Festival successfully came to an end in Lalitpur, Nepal. Minister for Foreign Affairs NP Saud of Nepal had inaugurated the festival. This event fulfilled its role in the exchange of culture in the South Asia promoting literary and cultural activities. Llitterateur from India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka exhibited in the festival. The festival showcased literature, music, dance, poetry and other art forms.
Professor Avadhesh Pradhan, actress and writer Divya Dutta, Prof Madhav Prasad Pokharel and actress Manisha Koirala's were awarded 'Yashaswi Sahitya Samman'. Similarly, those awarded with the 'Yashaswi Book Prize' initiated from this year include writer Bibek Ojha towards fiction for his book 'Aithan', Dr Nawaraj KC towards creative non-fiction for his book 'Sunyako Mulya', Renuka GC towards story for her book 'Sanesh', Dr Mahendra Malla towards poetry for the anthology of poems entitled 'Bhasako Bakpatra', Govinda Giri Prerana towards biography for the biography 'Sushree Parijaat' and Anuradha towards children's literature for her book 'Chhamchhako Chhamchhami'.
Aug 29, 2023
Archaeologists Unearth 3,000-year-old Priestly Tomb in Northern Peru
Archaeologists in northern Peru unearthed a 3,000-year-old tomb which they believe might have honoured an elite religious leader in the Andean country some three millennia ago.
Dubbed the 'Priest of Pacopampa', referring to the highland archaeological zone where the tomb was found, the priest was buried under six layers of ash mixed with black earth, with decorated ceramic bowls and seals indicating ancient ritual body paint used for people of elite standing.
Two seals were also found along the upper edges of the tomb, one with an anthropomorphic face looking east and another with a jaguar design facing west.
Aug 23, 2023
Kashmir's Tulip Garden Listed as Asia's Largest by World Book of Records
Kashmir's famous tulip garden added another feather to its cap, it was included in the World Book of Records (London) as Asia's largest tulip garden. This is one of the biggest acknowledgements for the garden since its inception.
Situated at the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range on the banks of Dal Lake, the tulip garden of Kashmir was finally recognised as Asia's largest tulip garden and certified in the World Book of Records (London). The Department of Floriculture, Gardens and Parks was awarded the certificate by the Chairman and CEO, of the World Book of Records (London) at a function held in Srinagar.
Tulip Garden Kashmir was established in 2008. For the last fifteen years everyone associated with the garden, like gardeners, officials have tried their best to make this garden one of the special attractions of Kashmir.
Aug 21, 2023
Maharashtra Government Launches Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme
The Maharashtra government took a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and improving the lives of tribal communities in the state. The Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme aims to link all tribal villages in 17 districts of Maharashtra with main roads, effectively addressing the challenges faced by these communities in accessing essential services. The project, estimated at a cost of Rs. 5,000 crore, will involve the construction of approximately 6,838 kilometres of roads.
The Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme has been initiated by the Maharashtra government to connect tribal villages with primary roads, promoting better accessibility and improved living conditions.
The scheme is an outcome of the Budget Session announcement by Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Devendra Fadnavis, focusing on the establishment of perennial roads to connect tribal padas (hamlets).