As the G20 Summit looms on the horizon, a remarkable synthesis of India’s heritage and contemporary prowess takes center stage. Embracing the theme of India’s ongoing G20 Presidency, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” drawn from the ancient Sanskrit text Hitopadesha and connoting ‘the whole earth is one family,’ serves as the guiding force behind the design of the newly constructed Bharat Mandapam. This monumental structure is poised to host the eminent gathering, blending time-honored wisdom with the dynamism of the present.
The Inspiration:
Derived from the hallowed pages of history, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” shapes India’s G20 narrative. Embedded within this theme is the essence of unity and global kinship, echoing across time from the past to the present.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bharat Mandapam on July 26. Situated within the Pragati Maidan complex, this monumental project, valued at Rs 2,700 crore, is undergoing final embellishments in readiness for its forthcoming handover to the Ministry of External Affairs, the custodian of the upcoming Summit.
The Symbolism:
The profound philosophy encapsulated in the “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” motif finds eloquent expression throughout the venue. A plaque alongside the artwork aptly summarizes, “The work highlights this ancient Indian concept that in today’s context is globally relevant; it defines our concept of brotherhood.”
Artistry Unveiled:
The Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam exhibit takes its place among a diverse collection of 30 artworks and decorative pieces adorning the four-story convention center. Representing India’s artistic kaleidoscope, this mosaic weaves together major art forms, textile traditions, and the spirit of yoga. The overarching objective: to merge India’s traditional wisdom with its contemporary strides in solar energy, space exploration, and global leadership.
The masterful execution of this artistic journey rests with Pune-based Design Studio Lemon Design Pvt Ltd, working in tandem with Delhi-based Origin Ink LLP. The latter’s experience extends to prior projects such as the Dandi Kutir initiative in Gandhinagar and the Aquatic Gallery situated within Ahmedabad’s Science City.
Vinay Narang, the experiential designer from Lemon Design, has been intricately involved in the venture since its inception in 2017. After the conceptualization of the Bharat Mandapam crystallized in 2019, the arduous journey of bringing interior artwork to life spanned almost three years. Narang revealed, “Twelve months were spent in the design stage and the on-site execution took another 18-20 months,” underscoring the meticulous craftsmanship underlying the project.
Immersive Experiences:
The artistic tapestry extends into the main Summit room on Level 2. A Shekhawati panel, adorned with animal motifs, encircles a grand oval chandelier, symbolizing India’s abundance, strength, and vitality. Beyond this, discreet rooms await bilateral discussions, and international delegates find respite in between sessions.
Level 2 unfolds the G20 pre-function area, adorned with three grand canvases. These paintings vividly depict India’s rich heritage through the lens of Indian miniature paintings, seamlessly blending traditional motifs with contemporary nuances.
Resonating Throughout:
The thematic thread of the peacock, India’s national bird, weaves through the entire center, representing the architectural design and decorative aspects. This emblem is tastefully interwoven into various rooms, corridors, and open spaces.
Beyond Art:
A dedicated area pays homage to India’s rich tradition of yoga, showcasing 32 “essential yoga asanas” based on the Gheranda Samhita. Textile traditions also occupy a significant place, with five distinct artworks curated from the country’s geographical regions, woven together with the intricate designs found in regional architecture.
The Essence of Progress:
“Surya Shakti,” an art piece, symbolizes solar power through a central disc portraying the sun and emanating rays. Seven horses spring from this disc, symbolizing life’s energy. This artwork mirrors India’s rise, dispelling darkness and embracing warmth and light.
Charting Centuries:
The artwork “Zero to ISRO” chronicles India’s enduring progress across centuries, depicted through seven monolithic discs crafted from various materials. This narrative encapsulates India’s journey from antiquity to the forefront of modernity.
Architectural Marvel:
The convention center spans three levels and boasts 24 meeting rooms. Diverse capacities cater to different conference needs, accommodating 50, 100, or 200 individuals.
The Heart of the Matter:
The third level houses the convention center’s pièce de résistance: a multipurpose hall seating 4,000, which hosted the inauguration ceremony. This hall is seamlessly linked to a plenary hall accommodating 3,000 attendees, expandable to 7,000 by merging both spaces.
Technology and Convenience:
The center’s technology is state-of-the-art, embracing audio-video systems, video conferencing, and 5G connectivity. Kitchen facilities are strategically placed across the venue.
Beyond the Summit:
Post the Summit, the Bharat Mandapam will open its doors for bookings, with the India Trade Promotion Organisation spearheading marketing efforts. This transition marks a new chapter, where the venue’s multifaceted charm extends to diverse gatherings and events.
