Hon’ble Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi inaugurated the “Buddham Saranam Gacchami” Exhibition in the presence of senior Buddhist monks, H.E. Ambassadors, diplomats and Ministry officials on May 10, 2023 at the National Gallery of Modern Arts, New Delhi. H.E. the Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche of the Drepung Gomang Monastery was the Guest of Honour at the event. The International Buddhist Confederation also actively participated in the event.
The Exhibition organized in the week succeeding Buddha Purnima was based on the life of Lord Buddha and showcased the voyage of Buddhist art and culture around the world, exhibiting works of art by iconic masters of modern Indian art, divided into sections, each documenting a distinct facet of Buddhism and Buddha’s life. These artistic works that have been put on display offer a glimpse into the history and philosophy of one of Buddhism.
The Exhibition started with the lighting of lamp and presentation of Angavastra amidst chanting by senior Buddhist monks. It was followed by a performance of “Shweta Mukti” which showcased feminine glory of Nirvana presented in Odissi Dance style by Kavita Dwibedi and her troupe.
While speaking to the gathering, Venerable Kundeling Rinpoche emphasized the relevance and importance of compassion in the Buddha’s teachings and urged everyone to practice compassion in their daily lives. He said that this was important not only among humans but between humans and all sentient beings in existence. He appreciated the fact that such special efforts were made by the Modern Art Gallery under the supervision and guidance of Minister of State Smt Meenakashi Lekhi to display art associated with Buddhism. Venerable Kundeling Rinpoche specially praised the natural setting in which the event was organized.
In her speech to the gathering Smt Meenakashi Lekhi mentioned that the teachings of the Buddha remain ever so relevant today as 2500 years ago. She mentioned that though Siddhartha Gautam was born in Lumbini, he got his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya and today both the places – in Nepal and India, bind the two countries strongly together. Mrs Lekhi further mentioned that India is not only the centre of Buddhist philosophy but also of art and culture and hence it has been India’s responsibility to bring forward the values of Buddhism to the larger world. This is the purity of India ideology, materialism and along with the value systems is India’s gift to the world, she said. According to Mrs Lekhi, the exhibition – `Buddham Saranam Gacchami’ was part of an effort to bring forward some rare and unique elements of art associated with Buddhism, especially the works of artist Nandalal Bose.
Missions of numerous countries were represented at the event through their Heads of Mission and deputies. The Exhibition was attended by most of the countries which have significant Buddhist population such as Nepal, Myanmar, Mongolia, South Korea, Thailand, Bhutan, etc. The exhibition also saw participation of Ambassadors from countries like Denmark, Greece, Luxembourg, Jamaica, Portugal, Georgia, Iceland, Ecuador, Syria, Peru and senior diplomats from many others.
The Exhibition showcased paintings from countries like Sri Lanka and Myanmar and showcased how Buddhism traversed across different countries. The aim of the exhibition is to delve into an exploration about the spirituality of art and their elements related with Buddhism and its journey expressing the universal values of wisdom, compassion, and peace.
The iconic Indian artist Nandalal Bose has explored the life and teachings of Buddha and his path of spirituality through line drawings with an ethereal quality. The scenic Himalayas in its true beauty find their representation in the works of Nicholas Roerich and Bireswar Sen.
The diplomatic corps appreciated the Exhibition and the cultural programme as they got to know more about the life of Lord Buddha and the values espoused by him.
The Exhibition is open for public till 10th June at the National Gallery of Modern Arts, India Gate.
