UK Exhibition Explores Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Life
A grand new exhibition brought together many previously unseen works to explore the life and legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the 19th century founder of the Sikh Empire, at the Wallace Collection museum in London. The exhibition featured historic objects from the legendary ruler's court, courtiers and family members.
Besides the glittering weaponry associated with the period of his reign between 1799 and 1849, the collection brings together intricate miniature paintings and exquisite jewellery from the Sikh Empire, drawn from major public and private collections.
This exhibition is a unique opportunity, through adding context, to examine the period of time and also deconstruct how it is that we have got where we are today, particularly in diaspora communities exploring their identity. We look at the complex relationships that cross cultural boundaries and bring out themes of love, devotion, overcoming adversity," said the British Sikh scholar.
London's Wallace Collection is renowned as the home of one of the finest collections of arms and armour in the world and for the first time its Sikh treasure trove is placed in its historic and artistic context, complete with traditional music of the time.
Apr 04, 2024
Governor R. N. Ravi Inaugurates Param Vir Chakra Garden
Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi inaugurated the Param Vir Chakra garden and Aikyam exhibition at the Kanchi Mahaswami Vidya Mandir in Tambaram, Tamil Nadu. Ravi was accompanied by Lt. Gen. Karanbir Singh Brar, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), General Officer Commanding (Dakshin Bharat area), and V.Shankar, chairman of the Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Trust.
The garden showcases the history and statues of the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, India's highest military decoration for valour.
Lt. Gen. Karanbir Singh Brar praised the initiative, stating that such honour has not been accorded by any non-Army institute or organisation before. He emphasised the need to highlight the services of the Indian Armed Forces.
Mar 31, 2024
A 900-Year-Old Chalukyan Inscription Found at Gangapuram
A 900-year-old Kannada inscription dating back to the Kalyana Chalukya dynasty was discovered in a state of utter neglect at Gangapuram, a temple town in Jadcherla Mandal, Mahabubnagar district, Telangana. The rare inscription was found lying uncared for on a tank bund near the Chowdamma temple.
The inscription was issued in 1134 CE by the Customs Officers of Tailapa-III, son of the Kalyana Chalukya Emperor 'Bhulokamalla' Someswara-III.
It records the remission of income accrued through toll taxes called Vaddaravula and Hejjunka towards a perpetual lamp and incense for the God Somanatha.
Mar 30, 2024
World's First Om-Shaped Temple Inaugurated in Rajasthan
The world's first-ever temple designed in the iconic Om shape was inaugurated in the village of Jadan, Pali district of Rajasthan. This architectural masterpiece, spanning across 250 acres, is not only expected to attract tourists but will also boast an impressive visual presence visible from space.
This groundbreaking endeavour marks a significant milestone as it pioneers the creation of such a distinctive temple globally. The 'Om Aakar' temple, following the Nagara style commonly seen in North India, pays tribute to the region's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Mar 27, 2024
ASI Begins Excavation in MP to Find India's Oldest Temple
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is conducting excavations at two mounds in Nachne village, located in the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh. The goal of these excavations is to uncover what could potentially be the oldest temple in India.
The excavation sites are situated just 30 meters away from two ancient temples – a Gupta-era Parvati temple and the Chaumukh Nath temple built by the Kalachuri dynasty. These temples, known as the Nachna Hindu temples, are among the earliest surviving stone temples in central India, alongside those found in Bhumara and Deogarh.
Archaeologists believe that there is a historic site buried beneath the ground in Nachne village, and they are digging to uncover it. Dr. Shivakant Bajpai, the ASI's Superintending Archaeologist, stated that Nachne village is an important archaeological location and houses a Parvati temple.
Madhya Pradesh is home to several ancient temples, including the 'Sanchi 17', a Gupta-period shrine considered to be the oldest complete surviving temple in India to date, dating back to the 5th century CE.