New Delhi: On the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) inaugurated a special exhibition featuring rare Ganesh sculptures from the renowned Lance Dane Collection, spanning from the 12th to 20th centuries. Complementing the sculptures is a display of paintings by acclaimed artist K. Viswanathan. The exhibition, organized jointly by the Conservation and Kaladarsana Divisions of IGNCA, is open to the public at the Darshanam Gallery through September 5.
Significance of the Exhibition – ‘Vighneshwara Kutumb: Ganesh and His Family’
The collection, assembled by British art historian Lance Dane who dedicated his life to preserving artistic heritage, showcases various forms of Ganesh as part of the divine family—son of Shiva and Parvati and brother to Kartikeya. The exhibition illuminates the profound cultural and spiritual importance of Lord Ganesha, emphasizing his role as the remover of obstacles and guide of knowledge and culture.
Highlights from the Inauguration
-
Shri Ram Bahadur Rai, President of IGNCA, in his address, described Lord Ganesha as “an integral part of our lives and a guide on the path of knowledge and culture.”
-
The event was graced by eminent officials including Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi (Member Secretary, IGNCA), Prof. Achal Pandya (Head, Conservation), and Prof. Richa Kamboj (Head, Kaladarsana).
-
Shri Rai emphasized reaching out to younger generations to foster appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage through such exhibitions.
-
Prof. Achal Pandya highlighted IGNCA’s initiative to bring its collections into the public domain, noting the acquisition of the Lance Dane collection as a proud achievement.
Public Engagement and Cultural Impact
The exhibition attracted a diverse audience of cultural connoisseurs, researchers, and the general public, promoting a deeper understanding and connection to India’s artistic and spiritual lineage. It offers an immersive experience into the evolution of Ganesh imagery and philosophy, enriching India’s ongoing cultural discourse.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
